Neuropathic pain arises from problems within the nervous system itself rather than from ongoing tissue damage. The nerves may be injured, compressed, or malfunctioning, sending pain signals even when there is no external cause.
This type of pain can be particularly challenging because it often does not respond well to standard pain medications. However, targeted treatments that address nerve function can provide significant relief for many patients.
Symptoms of Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic pain is often described differently than other types of pain. Patients commonly report burning, shooting, stabbing, or electric shock sensations. The pain may be constant or occur in sudden bursts.
Other symptoms include heightened sensitivity where even light touch feels painful, numbness or tingling, and unusual sensations such as crawling or prickling. Some patients experience pain in areas that feel numb to normal touch, which can be confusing and distressing.
What Causes Neuropathic Pain?
Many conditions can damage nerves and cause neuropathic pain. Diabetes is one of the most common causes, leading to peripheral neuropathy that typically affects the feet and hands. Shingles can cause persistent nerve pain known as postherpetic neuralgia.
Other causes include nerve compression from herniated discs or spinal stenosis, surgical nerve injury, chemotherapy, complex regional pain syndrome, and nerve entrapment conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. In some cases, the underlying cause cannot be identified.
Our Diagnosis Approach to Neuropathic Pain
Diagnosis relies heavily on your description of symptoms, as the quality and distribution of neuropathic pain are distinctive. Dr. Sperzel will perform a neurological examination to assess sensation, reflexes, and nerve function in affected areas.
Electrodiagnostic studies such as EMG and nerve conduction tests may help evaluate nerve function. Imaging studies can identify structural causes of nerve compression. Blood tests may be ordered to look for underlying conditions such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.
Evidence-Based Treatments
Treatment for neuropathic pain often differs from approaches used for other pain types. Certain medications that affect nerve signaling, including specific antidepressants and anticonvulsants, are often more effective than traditional pain relievers.
Interventional treatments can provide significant relief when medications are insufficient. Nerve blocks can interrupt pain signals from specific nerves. For patients with chronic neuropathic pain that has not responded to other treatments, peripheral nerve stimulation or spinal cord stimulation may offer meaningful improvement.
When to Seek Care
Consider evaluation if you experience burning, shooting, or electric pain that persists beyond normal healing time, or if you have numbness accompanied by painful sensations. Neuropathic pain often responds best when treated early.
Seek prompt care if symptoms are rapidly progressing, affecting your ability to walk or use your hands, or accompanied by weakness. Early diagnosis and treatment can sometimes prevent permanent nerve damage.
