All About Neuropathic Pain
Overview
Neuropathic pain is a common condition that takes place when the nervous system is not working correctly due to damage or disease. The pain, caused by nerve damage to the nervous system — including the peripheral nerves (nerves spread to bodily organs, arms, legs, fingers, and toes), spinal cord, and brain — causes discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas, making daily tasks difficult and unenjoyable.
Though most neuropathies start in the hands and feet, other parts of the body can also be affected. Neuropathic pain is often described by patients as a burning or “pins-and-needles” sensation that makes affected areas sensitive to touch or cold temperatures. Sometimes the pain can be sharp and sudden (similar to an electric shock) or spontaneous (pain felt without any stimulation).
All About Neuropathic Pain
Overview
Neuropathic pain is a common condition that takes place when the nervous system is not working correctly due to damage or disease. The pain, caused by nerve damage to the nervous system — including the peripheral nerves (nerves spread to bodily organs, arms, legs, fingers, and toes), spinal cord, and brain — causes discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas, making daily tasks difficult and unenjoyable.
Though most neuropathies start in the hands and feet, other parts of the body can also be affected. Neuropathic pain is often described by patients as a burning or “pins-and-needles” sensation that makes affected areas sensitive to touch or cold temperatures. Sometimes the pain can be sharp and sudden (similar to an electric shock) or spontaneous (pain felt without any stimulation).
The 4 Stages of Neuropathy
Stage One: Numbness and Pain.
Stage Two: Constant Pain.
Stage Three: Intense Pain.
Stage Four: Complete Numbness/Loss of Sensation.
The Causes of Neuropathic Pain
The most common causes of neuropathic pain can be divided into four main categories: disease, injury, infection, and loss of limb. Though Diabetes is responsible for most (about 50%) of neuropathy cases, there are hundreds of diseases linked to this kind of pain and it can be difficult to find the root cause.
Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain
Though the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may decrease over time, in some cases, they never go away. But at AK Pain & Spine, we believe that no one should live with pain. There are many treatment options available to relieve the pain caused by damage to the nervous system including antidepressants, pain medication, and pain-relieving creams. Combination Electro-analgesia Therapy (CET) is a clinically-proven treatment that is extremely effective in relieving pain and discomfort for patients — decreasing numbness and restoring sensation to the hands and feet. Other ways to slow the progression of neuropathies or provide comfort during daily activities include the following:
• Drink more water: Stay hydrated to reduce inflammation and avoid triggering pain receptors.
• Avoid sugary snacks and alcohol: Sugary snacks cause high levels of blood sugar, impacting nerve damage for those with diabetic neuropathy.
• Get regular exercise: Walking just three times a week can reduce neuropathy pain by strengthening muscles and lowering blood sugar levels.
• Make an appointment with us: Our specialists will determine the necessary treatment for your neuropathic pain that will provide the comfort you’re looking for.
No matter what the cause, we believe nobody in pain should wait. At AK Pain & Spine Center, our services go beyond the spine. We proudly hold the title of “the number one pain management practice” in Houston, TX, and whether you’re looking to avoid surgery or previous surgery didn’t help the pain, we are your answer for pain relief.
If you are experiencing neuropathic pain, contact us today. Our interventional pain specialists truly care for our patients and provide comprehensive, cutting-edge treatments to restore their function. We’re passionate about helping our patients live a pain-free and active lifestyle — and we think you should too.
