Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain caused by damage to the nerves, most commonly in the arms and legs. It can feel like burning, stabbing or shooting pains and can be so severe that it interferes with daily life.

The causes of neuropathic pain can range from physical trauma, such as nerve damage due to an accident or surgery, to medical conditions like diabetes and shingles. Additionally, prolonged use of certain medications, such as opioid painkillers, may also contribute to neuropathic pain. While there is no guaranteed way to prevent neuropathic pain, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding overexertion may reduce the risk.

Certain groups, such as diabetics, heavy drinkers and those with autoimmune diseases (such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis), are at higher risk of experiencing neuropathic pain. Other contributing factors include:

• Trauma resulting from injuries that cause nerve damage
• Family history of inherited nerve conditions
• Infections like Lyme disease, hepatitis B and C, shingles and HIV/AIDS
• Vitamin deficiencies, such as low levels of B12
• Work-related repetitive motions of certain muscle groups
• Toxin exposure
• Central nervous system disorders like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease

Individuals experiencing neuropathic pain due to medical conditions like diabetes, shingles or multiple sclerosis can prevent further nerve damage by managing their condition. Self-care and a healthy lifestyle can also prevent excessive pain. Focusing on regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and quitting smoking can reduce the risk of pain flare-ups.

The symptoms of neuropathic pain vary from person to person. Some common signs include burning or tingling sensations, numbness and hypersensitivity to touch, stabbing pains that come without warning and extreme sensitivity to cold or heat. Pain may be felt in the affected area (isolated or widespread) and other body parts.

Diagnosing neuropathic pain can be challenging for healthcare providers because no single test can confirm it. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical exam, lab tests and imaging studies. Our specialists may also perform an electromyography (EMG) test to measure how your nerves work. Your doctor will also ask about other medical conditions contributing to the pain.

Many individuals who experience neuropathic pain find relief with antidepressant drugs or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medication (such as Aleve or Motrin). Our team of specialists will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include one or more of the following: 

• Non-opioid based oral pain management
• Desensitization techniques with therapy when appropriate
• Local nerve blocks that temporarily numb the area, blocking pain signals to the brain
• Image-guided sympathetic blocks, a procedure that uses an X-ray, ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan to guide a needle to inject medicine targeting the source of pain

A healthy lifestyle can help reduce neuropathic pain. Patients can manage their symptoms by exercising regularly, eating a nutritious diet, avoiding alcohol and taking vitamin supplements. Additionally, pain relievers, topical medications, prescription medications and managing blood sugar levels have all been proven to improve the quality of life for those with neuropathic pain.