Neuropathy

Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is most times explained as a burning or shooting pain. While it can be temporary and stops on its own, most of the time it is chronic, severe, and unrelenting. This form of pain is often caused by damage done to the nervous system or the malfunctioning of it. Nerve damage changes the functions of not only the damaged nerve itself, but also all of the surrounding nerves in the area.

Neuropathic Pain Symptoms

Symptoms of neuropathic pain might include:

  • Numbness and tingling
  • Burning or shooting pain

Neuropathic Pain Causes

Most times, neuropathic pain has no obvious or significant cause. Nevertheless, there are some common causes of neuropathic pain. These are:

  • Amputation
  • Alcoholism
  • Diabetes
  • Chemotherapy
  • HIV or AIDS
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Facial nerve problems
  • Multiple myelomas
  • Thyroid problems
  • Syphilis
  • Spine surgery
  • Shingles
  • Spinal cord or nerve compression from a herniated disc or spine arthritis

Neuropathic Pain Diagnosing

Diagnosis of neuropathic pain will require the doctor to conduct a physical exam on and interview of the patient. During this process, the doctor might ask for a description of the pain, what triggers it when it occurs, and risk factors for the pain, amongst other questions. It’s also common for the doctor to conduct nerve and blood tests as well during diagnosis.

Treatment of Neuropathic Pain

Antidepressant and anticonvulsant drugs are often administered as the first line of treatment of neuropathic pain. Some studies on neuropathic pain suggest the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Motrin or Aleve, to ease the pain. While you should always consult with your physician first, on a case-by-case basis, stronger painkillers may be required.

It is not uncommon for there to be other conditions involved, such as diabetes, with neuropathic pain. In these cases, excellent management of the extra condition might ensure that the pain is alleviated. Proper management of these other conditions is vital to ensure further nerve damage is prevented.

In other cases, the doctor might utilize an implantable or invasive device to manage the pain adequately. This solution is usually only for cases that are difficult to treat; but, when necessary, by using these treatments, neuropathic pain can be significantly controlled. This is accomplished by having the implanted device used to stimulate the nerves electrically.

Some Other Available Treatments for Neuropathic Pain

  • Acupuncture
  • Relaxation therapy
  • Working with a counselor
  • Massage therapy
  • Physical therapy

At Progressive Pain and Rehabilitation, our health experts value your well being. We provide the best and latest Regenerative Medicine services aimed to ensure you’re back to your best feeling. Contact us today to schedule your evaluation for any of our quality pain management services and get the best chronic pain relief in The Woodlands, TX.