When we say someone has been "pushed to the wall" it often implies that they have been backed into a corner, forced to take drastic measures. Fortunately, there are plenty of other ways to express this sentiment. One could say they have been "cornered," "trapped," or even "hemmed in" by their circumstances. Alternatively, one could describe them as being "at their wit's end," "up against it," or "in dire straits." No matter which of these synonyms you choose, the implication remains the same: when someone has been pushed to the wall, they are facing a difficult situation and must find a way to overcome it.