Pain caused by nerve problems is known as nerve pain. When an injury causes this pain, it’s called nociceptive pain. However, if the pain is caused by a disease or damage to the nervous system, it’s called neuralgia or neuropathic pain. This type of pain is caused by a nerve problem, which sends pain signals to the brain.
Nerve Pain Symptoms
The symptoms of nerve pain can vary depending on the underlying cause and the nerves affected. Here are some common symptoms associated with nerve pain:
- Sharp, shooting, or stabbing pain: Nerve pain is often described as a strong, shooting, or stabbing sensation that can occur spontaneously or be triggered by specific activities or movements.
- Burning or tingling sensation: Many people with nerve pain experience a persistent burning or tingling sensation in the affected area. This sensation may be constant or come and go.
- Hypersensitivity: Nerve pain can cause heightened sensitivity to touch or temperature changes. Even a light touch or exposure to cold or hot temperatures can elicit a painful response.
- Numbness or loss of sensation: In some cases, nerve damage can lead to numbness or a loss of success in the affected area. This can make it difficult to feel pain or distinguish between different types of stimuli.
- Radiating pain: Nerve pain often radiates from the point of origin to other parts of the body. For example, if a nerve in the lower back is affected, the pain may travel down the leg, causing sciatica.
- Muscle weakness: Nerve damage can also result in muscle weakness or atrophy in the affected area. This can lead to difficulty performing specific movements or activities.
- Disrupted sleep: Nerve pain can be exceptionally bothersome at night, causing sleep disturbances and insomnia.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. If you are experiencing symptoms of nerve pain, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
Causes of nerve pain
Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, can be caused by various factors that result in damage or dysfunction of the nerves. Some common causes include:
- Peripheral neuropathy:- It is one of the most common causes of nerve pain. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves, which connect the central nervous system to the rest of the body, become damaged. Diabetes, certain medications, infections, traumatic injuries, and autoimmune diseases are common causes of peripheral neuropathy.
- Nerve compression:- When a nerve is compressed or pinched, it can lead to pain and other symptoms. Conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sciatica can cause nerve compression and subsequent pain.
- Nerve injuries:- Physical injuries, such as fractures, traumatic accidents, or surgical procedures, can damage nerves and lead to persistent nerve pain.
- Shingles:- Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, can result in postherpetic neuralgia. This occurs when the virus affects the nerves and causes chronic pain in the area where the shingles rash was present.
- Certain diseases and conditions:- Various diseases and medical conditions can cause nerve pain. Examples include multiple sclerosis (MS), fibromyalgia, HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease, certain types of cancer (e.g., nerve compression due to tumors), and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
- Nutritional deficiencies:- Deficiencies in specific vitamins, particularly B vitamins (such as B12), can lead to nerve damage and subsequent pain.
- Medications:- Some medications, such as certain chemotherapy drugs, antiviral drugs, and certain antibiotics, have the potential to cause nerve damage and result in nerve pain as a side effect.
Nerve Pain: Treatment
The treatment of nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, aims to alleviate symptoms, manage the underlying cause (if possible), and improve the individual’s quality of life. Treatment options for nerve pain may include:
- Medications:
- Antidepressants: Certain antidepressant medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline) and selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (e.g., duloxetine), can help relieve nerve pain by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
- Anticonvulsants: Medications commonly used to treat seizures, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, effectively manage nerve pain.
- Topical medications: Certain creams, gels, or patches containing lidocaine or capsaicin can be applied directly to the painful area to provide localized relief.
- Opioids: In some cases, opioids may be prescribed for severe nerve pain unresponsive to other treatments. However, their use is typically reserved for short-term or carefully managed situations due to the potential for addiction and other side effects.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can benefit some individuals with nerve pain. It may involve exercises, stretching, and other techniques to improve strength, flexibility, and posture and reduce nerve compression.
- Nerve blocks: In some instances, a nerve block procedure may be performed. This involves injecting a local anesthetic or other medication directly into or near the affected nerve to block the pain signals temporarily.
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): TENS is a therapy that uses a small, battery-operated device to deliver mild electrical currents to the skin over the painful area. This can help reduce pain by interfering with pain signals.
- Complementary and alternative therapies: Some individuals find relief from nerve pain through treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, and biofeedback. These approaches help reduce pain, improve relaxation, and promote well-being.
- Lifestyle modifications: Making specific lifestyle changes can also contribute to managing nerve pain. These may include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, practicing stress management techniques, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding or minimizing activities exacerbating pain.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation.
They can evaluate your symptoms, conduct necessary tests, and tailor a treatment approach that addresses the underlying cause of your nerve pain and provides you with the best possible relief.
Can Physical Therapists Help With Nerve Pain?
Yes, physical therapists can be valuable in helping individuals with nerve pain. They can provide treatments and interventions to reduce pain, improve functional abilities, and enhance the overall quality of life.
Here’s how physical therapists can help with nerve pain:
- Pain management: Physical therapists are trained in various techniques and modalities to help manage pain. They can use manual therapy techniques, such as gentle and soft tissue mobilization, to reduce nerve irritation and improve mobility. They may also incorporate modalities like heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to relieve pain.
- Exercise and stretching: Physical therapists can design and guide individuals through specific exercises and stretches that target the affected nerves and surrounding muscles. These exercises can help improve flexibility, strength, and coordination, reducing nerve compression and promoting optimal nerve function.
- Posture and body mechanics: Poor posture and improper body mechanics can contribute to nerve compression and pain. Physical therapists can assess an individual’s posture and movement patterns and guide proper alignment and body mechanics. They may suggest modifications to daily activities or ergonomic adjustments reduce nerve stress and pain.
- Nerve gliding techniques: Physical therapists can teach individuals specific nerve gliding exercises or practices. These movements aim to gently mobilize the nerves and prevent them from becoming adhered or compressed, which can help alleviate pain and restore normal nerve function.
- Education and self-management strategies: Physical therapists can educate individuals about their specific condition, the underlying causes of nerve pain, and plans to manage their symptoms. This may include recommendations for lifestyle modifications, activity modifications, and self-care techniques to minimize pain and prevent flare-ups.
- Collaborative care: Physical therapists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with other healthcare professionals such as physicians, pain specialists, and occupational therapists. This collaborative approach ensures comprehensive care and optimized outcomes for individuals with nerve pain.
Conclusion
Physical Therapy is a valuable resource for individuals seeking relief from nerve pain. Through various techniques such as pain management strategies, exercise programs, posture correction, nerve gliding exercises, and education on self-management, physical therapists play a crucial role in improving the quality of life for those living with nerve pain.
If you’re experiencing nerve pain, consult a physical therapist who can develop a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs and help you regain control over your life.
Tags: physical therapy, nerve pain
