Nerve Pain - How To Handle It?

How To Control Nerve Pain?

Nerve pain or peripheral neuropathy, as it is medically known, is characterized by pain, numbness and weakness that arise out of nerve damage. This pain is usually restricted to the feet and the hands.

What are the common causes?

Diabetes is the most common cause for this condition. However, other causes, such as injuries, surgery, infections such as herpes zoster and prolonged exposure to certain toxins can also trigger nerve pain.

How can you control nerve pain?

Nerve pain can be managed/reduced by using some measures mentioned below:

1. Topical Painkillers: Certain over the counter ointments and creams can help relieve nerve pain. These medications act as local anaesthetics, which make the area of pain numb. Capsaicin, a derivative of chili peppers, is another ingredient used in nerve pain management. It comes in the form of creams that can be used at home and as very strong patches, which require medical supervision for usage.

2. Oral Painkillers: There are painkillers available that can curb nerve pain. However OTC painkillers such as ibuprofen, aspirin and acetaminophen do not really work well and special class of painkillers called neuropathic agents are generally used.

3. Supplements: The lack of Vitamin B12 is considered to be a very important cause, and at times, a catalyst for nerve pain. In such cases, Vitamin B12 supplements or injections might be administered. Although more research needs to go into this, but certain supplements, especially gamma-linolenic and alpha-lipoic acid can help soothe certain types of nerve pain.

4. Relaxation Techniques: Stress, anxiety can cause nerve pain flare-ups. Relaxation techniques can help in dealing with these and being in control.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: A well-balanced diet with sufficient quantities of essential nutrients is always helpful. Regular exercise for about 30-45 minutes helps liberate useful chemicals and hormones in the body. It is helpful to abstain from smoking and limiting alcohol intake.

6. Acupuncture: This time honoured Chinese approach can help with nerve pain. Acupuncture releases chemicals and restores energy balance in the body, which can in turn reduce the pain signals travelling to the brain.

7. Physical Therapy and Massages: Physical Therapy can strengthen weak muscles and relieve muscle spasms that often result from nerve damage. Besides the above measures you pain specialist may use numerous other interventions such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency treatment etc. to help you get on top of your pain and progress towards your goals.