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Conditions

Nerve (Neuropathic) Pain

Neuropathic pain is pain due to nerve damage or injury, like with a pinched nerve or pain which persists after back surgery.  Pain is often described as burning, electrical and shooting, and feelings of tingling and numbness are common.  

Recommended medication treatments include those that act on the nerves directly, such as SNRI’s, TCA’s, and gabapentinoids.  Nerve blocks also help relieve neuropathic pain symptoms by disrupting pain signals to the brain.  

Pain. Young Woman Suffering From Terrible Strong Pain, Touching Cheek With Hand. Female Feeling Painful Toothache.

Condition Causes

  1. Nerve Compression: Compression of nerves, often due to conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or carpal tunnel syndrome, can lead to nerve pain. The pressure on the nerves disrupts their normal function and causes pain, tingling, or numbness in the affected area.
  2. Nerve Injury: Direct damage or trauma to the nerves, such as from accidents, surgeries, or infections, can result in neuropathic pain. The nerve fibers may become damaged or severed, leading to persistent pain sensations.
  3. Diabetic Neuropathy: Diabetes can cause nerve damage over time, resulting in diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar levels affect the nerves, leading to pain, tingling, and numbness, typically in the feet and hands.
  4. Postherpetic Neuralgia: Postherpetic neuralgia is a type of nerve pain that occurs following a shingles (herpes zoster) infection. The virus affects the nerves, leading to persistent pain even after the infection has resolved.
  5. Phantom Limb Pain: Phantom limb pain occurs when individuals experience pain in a limb that has been amputated. The brain continues to send pain signals to the missing limb, resulting in persistent discomfort.
  6. Multiple Sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Nerve damage caused by MS can lead to neuropathic pain, including electric shock-like sensations or burning pain.

Condition Treatments

  1. Medications: Several medications can help manage nerve pain. These include:a. Anticonvulsants: Medications commonly used to treat seizures, such as gabapentin or pregabalin, are also effective in treating nerve pain.b. Antidepressants: Certain antidepressant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can provide relief for nerve pain.

    c. Topical Medications: Prescription topical creams or patches containing medications such as lidocaine or capsaicin can help alleviate localized nerve pain.

  2. Nerve Blocks: Nerve blocks involve injecting medication, such as a local anesthetic or steroid, near the affected nerve to provide temporary pain relief. This procedure is typically performed by a pain management specialist.
  3. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): TENS therapy involves using a small, battery-operated device that delivers low-level electrical currents to the affected area. This can help disrupt pain signals and provide relief.
  4. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be beneficial for nerve pain management. A physical therapist can provide exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and posture, helping to reduce pain and improve overall function.
  5. Nerve Stimulation: Techniques such as spinal cord stimulation or peripheral nerve stimulation involve implanting a device that delivers electrical impulses to the nerves, interfering with pain signals and providing relief.
  6. Complementary Therapies: Some individuals find relief from nerve pain through complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or relaxation techniques. These therapies may help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and alleviate pain.
  7. Lifestyle Modifications: Making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing underlying health conditions can help improve nerve health and potentially alleviate pain.

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Conclusion

Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right understanding and treatment, relief is possible. Identifying the underlying causes of nerve pain and exploring the available treatment options can help individuals effectively manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan to address nerve pain effectively. Through a combination of medications, nerve blocks, physical therapy, and complementary therapies, individuals can find relief and regain control over their lives.

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Releva Treatments for Nerve (Neuropathic) Pain

Psychotherapy
Nerve Blocks
Medications management
Multimodal Care Plan

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