You’ve Got Some Nerve
Nerve pain can range from unpleasant to severe and debilitating. What is unfortunate is that individuals struggle with nerve pain in silence, unable to or unaware of the possible treatment options. Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, happens from damage or dysfunction of the nerves that transmit electrical signals throughout the body. This nerve pain is common in the extremities, like the legs, feet, and hands. Nerve pain is different from muscle soreness or joint discomfort. Think of a constant electric shock, numbness, a constant ache, or a sharp stabbing pain. People with nerve pain believe this issue is untreatable and suffer in silence. Effective treatments exist and seeking help is the first step to long-term relief.
Potential causes of nerve pain
The body contains trillions of nerves that send signals back and forth to the brain. When nerves in a particular area are damaged or lose function, constant pain signals are sent to the brain. Even if there is no injury, the nerve pain continues, a sign that the nerves themselves are damaged. Diabetes is one of the more common causes of neuropathic pain as high blood sugar levels damage nerves throughout the body. Sciatica, a symptom of herniated discs pressing on nerves in the lower spine, is another cause of nerve pain. Past injuries or previous surgeries could heal but leave behind damaged nerves that cause chronic pain. Shingles and multiple sclerosis (MS) are other potential causes of nerve pain.
How do you know you have nerve pain?
Nerve pain can be constant or intermittent but can be clearly distinguished from other types of pain. Most individuals with nerve pain will notice a constant shooting, burning, or stabbing sensation in the affected area. There can be tingling and numbness, sometimes at night, disturbing sleep. Some people notice a pins and needles sensation in the area, which can be sensitive or painful to the touch. If these symptoms have been ongoing, seek medical advice immediately.
Your initial treatment
After speaking with a doctor and describing the symptoms, patients can get much-needed support. The goal is to find and manage the underlying cause while addressing nerve pain symptoms. Over-the-counter pain medications can help but may be ineffective. Doctors can recommend prescription oral and topical drugs to manage pain. Common examples include anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and opioids. Each medication has benefits and risks which the doctor will discuss. Physical therapy (PT) is a common solution for nerve pain as targeted exercises improve strength and flexibility, thereby limiting nerve pain. Some physiotherapists will use a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device, which uses a mild electrical current to stimulate relief. Consistent treatment and pain medication can help with mild to moderate nerve pain.
Try these alternative therapies
There are non-medical strategies that doctors may recommend for more effective pain management. Massage therapy can help individuals with nerve pain by improving circulation and blood flow while releasing endorphins. Studies show that acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice, can reduce neuropathic pain. Other alternative therapies like biofeedback, yoga, mindfulness, and meditation can help with pain management or changing the perception of nerve pain. Periodic alternative therapies combined with medication and PT should show results.
A deep dive into nerve pain
If initial treatments fail to bring relief, or the patient shows more severe symptoms, other treatments available. In advanced cases, a pain specialist or neurologist may take over, providing additional support. Nerve blocks, for instance, are local anesthetic drugs injected into the painful area using a process called fluoroscopy. The nerve block is also a diagnostic tool to determine if surgery is necessary. Another non-invasive treatment is radiofrequency ablation (RFA) where nerve endings are destroyed using heat generated by radio waves. While effective, these techniques bring relief for several months and may need follow-up treatment.
Thinking about surgery?
Severe cases can benefit from surgery where a doctor addresses specific nerves. A common example is direct nerve repair where severed nerve ends are manually reconnected. Nerve grafting is another option, using a piece of nerve from another area to connect damaged nerves. Surgery can release the pressure on nerves. Herniated disc removals, carpal tunnel release, and cubital tunnel release are common examples. Some doctors may recommend a spinal cord stimulator (SCS), a device with electrodes that disrupts pain signals. If successful, this device may be surgically implanted in the lower back area. Surgery requires recovery, sometimes lasting several weeks.
Don’t feel nervous about nerve pain
Chronic nerve pain is an unpleasant feeling and often leads to more debilitating symptoms. There is no need to suffer in silence, especially if the pain affects daily life, work activities, and relationships with others. The first step is acknowledging these symptoms and seeking out expert help. Multiple non-surgical and surgical options are available. Choose the right option based on individual needs and consider a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical and alternative therapies for the best results.
