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Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that occurs when there is damage to or dysfunction of the nervous system. Unlike pain caused by injury or inflammation, neuropathic pain results from problems within the nerves themselves. This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, disease, or even certain medical treatments. Neuropathic pain is often described as a burning, shooting, or stabbing pain and can be accompanied by tingling, numbness, or sensitivity to touch. Managing neuropathic pain can be challenging, but with the right treatment approach, relief is possible.

What Causes Neuropathic Pain?

Neuropathic pain can result from damage to the nerves in the peripheral nervous system (which connects the body to the brain and spinal cord) or the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord itself). Some common causes of neuropathic pain include:

  • Diabetes (Diabetic Neuropathy): High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, leading to tingling, numbness, and pain in the feet and hands.
  • Shingles (Postherpetic Neuralgia): The varicella-zoster virus that causes chickenpox can reactivate later in life and damage nerve fibers, resulting in severe pain.
  • Spinal Cord Injury: Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt nerve signals, leading to neuropathic pain in various parts of the body.
  • Multiple Sclerosis: This autoimmune disease affects the central nervous system and can lead to nerve damage and neuropathic pain.
  • Chemotherapy: Certain cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy, can cause nerve damage, leading to a condition known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can damage nerves and result in persistent pain.
  • Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol abuse can damage nerves and lead to neuropathy.
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand.
  • Herniated Disc: A herniated disc can press on nerves in the spine, causing radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs or arms.

Symptoms of Neuropathic Pain

The symptoms of neuropathic pain can vary depending on the underlying cause and the location of the nerve damage. Common symptoms include:

  • Burning Sensation: A persistent, fiery pain that can feel like it’s “burning” or “tingling.”
  • Sharp, Stabbing Pain: Sudden, intense shooting pain that can be triggered by light touch or movement.
  • Tingling or “Pins and Needles”: Abnormal sensations of tingling or numbness, often referred to as “paresthesia.”
  • Hypersensitivity to Touch: Even light pressure or touch can cause extreme pain or discomfort.
  • Weakness or Paralysis: Nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness or loss of movement in the affected area.
  • Electric Shock-Like Sensations: A sudden, sharp pain that feels like an electric shock traveling down the affected nerve.
  • Chronic Pain: Neuropathic pain is often persistent and can become chronic, meaning it lasts for months or years.

Diagnosing Neuropathic Pain

Diagnosing neuropathic pain requires a thorough evaluation by a pain specialist. At Ascent Pain, we begin with a detailed medical history and physical examination to assess your symptoms. Your doctor will ask about the onset of pain, any triggering factors, and your overall health. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be used to detect nerve compression or injury, while nerve conduction studies can help assess the function of your nerves. Blood tests may also be ordered to rule out underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or infection.

Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain

The goal of treating neuropathic pain is to reduce discomfort, improve quality of life, and address the underlying cause of the nerve damage. At Ascent Pain, we offer a range of effective treatments for neuropathic pain, including:

  • Medications:
    • Antidepressants: Certain types of antidepressants, such as tricyclics and SNRIs, can help manage neuropathic pain by altering the way the brain processes pain signals.
    • Anticonvulsants: Medications like gabapentin and pregabalin can help reduce nerve pain by stabilizing nerve activity.
    • Topical Treatments: Creams, gels, or patches containing lidocaine or capsaicin can be applied directly to the skin to alleviate localized pain.
    • Corticosteroids: Steroid medications can reduce inflammation around the affected nerves and alleviate pain.
  • Nerve Blocks and Injections:
    • Epidural Steroid Injections: Injection of steroid into the epidural space around the spinal cord can help reduce nerve inflammation and pain.
    • Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Targeted injections into the affected nerve or area can provide temporary relief from neuropathic pain.
    • Sympathetic Nerve Blocks: These injections help control pain by blocking the sympathetic nerves that transmit pain signals.
  • Nerve Stimulation:
    • Spinal Cord Stimulation: A device is implanted near the spinal cord to deliver electrical impulses that interfere with pain signals.
    • Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: Similar to spinal cord stimulation, this technique uses a small device placed near the affected nerve to reduce pain.
  • Physical Therapy: Specialized exercises and stretches can help improve nerve function and reduce pain. Physical therapy may also help strengthen muscles around the affected area and improve mobility.
  • Regenerative Medicine:
    • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP uses the patient’s own blood platelets to promote healing and reduce nerve inflammation.
  • Psychological Support and Pain Management: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of psychological support can help patients cope with the emotional and mental aspects of chronic pain.

Get Relief from Neuropathic Pain Today

If you are experiencing neuropathic pain, Ascent Pain can help. Our team of specialists will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and needs. Don’t let nerve pain control your life—schedule an appointment with us today to begin your journey to relief.

Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward lasting relief.