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BLOG ONSEN® / Healthy body and mind

Check how to overcome nerve pain!

22 czerwca 2021
Nerve pain, neuropathic pain, nerve damage
Contents
Causes of nerve pain
Diagnosing nerve pain
Treating nerve pain
Alternative therapies for nerve pain
Psychological aspects of nerve pain
Effective prevention of nerve pain
Neuralgia is a fairly complex concept related to psychological discomfort that goes beyond typical pain experiences. It is most often defined as pain resulting from damage to the nervous system that transmits pain signals to the brain. Unlike typical pain caused by mechanical injuries or inflammatory states, most neuralgias originate from disturbances in the nervous system.

Usually, neuralgias present as sharp and stabbing pain, which can sometimes also take other forms, such as tingling, burning, throbbing, or numbness, though not necessarily. For many people, they are impossible to precisely locate, and additionally, the pain may occur in a place significantly distant from the damaged nerve. Hence, the proper diagnosis and treatment of neuralgia often pose a great challenge to medical professionals.

An interesting aspect is neuroplasticity, the ability of the nervous system to permanently change its structure and function in response to stimuli. In the case of neuralgia, this is related to a change in pain perception, which results in them becoming more troublesome for patients.
Sharp shooting pain, acute pains, tingling in legs

Causes of nerve pain

Neuralgias are in most cases the result of disorders related to improper functioning of the nervous system. However, their etiology can vary. Therefore, it's important to get thoroughly examined to understand the causes of neuralgia and to be able to make a correct diagnosis, which will allow for the development of a treatment plan. Some types of neuralgia may have a genetic basis, hence individuals with family histories of neuralgia may be more susceptible to similar conditions.

One of the common causes of neuralgia is diabetic neuropathy, which is a consequence of long-term difficulties with blood sugar level control. Excess glucose in the blood damages blood vessels and nerves, which in turn leads to unpleasant symptoms, including sensory disturbances and sharp pain, especially in the lower limbs.

Other causes include compression or overuse, especially in the spine area. This can be, for example, compression of the sciatic nerve, which sometimes is related to spinal injury, or carpal tunnel syndrome, which is increasingly diagnosed. Especially among office workers who use their hands extensively.

People with autoimmune diseases also suffer from neuralgia, as the nature of these diseases leads to inflammatory conditions. This is particularly true for rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, diseases that damage nerves. It is because of these damages that neuropathic pain appears, which sometimes seems unbearable. Similarly, in the case of multiple sclerosis and peripheral neuritis, which also attack nerve structures.

The neuroplasticity of the brain, or its ability to adapt, does not help in this case. This feature sometimes intensifies neuralgias and prolongs their episodes. Chronic pain states lead to permanent changes in the structure and function of the nervous system due to neuroplasticity, which worsens the perception of pain and complicates its control.
Nerve pain, neuroplasticity, neuralgia, headaches

Diagnosing nerve pain

Establishing a precise diagnosis of neuralgia is the beginning of the entire treatment process, including effective management of this particularly troublesome type of pain. The diagnostic process requires an integrated approach, which includes patient history as well as a series of tests.

The basis of an effective neuralgia diagnosis is a detailed and thorough medical interview. The doctor considers the history of diseases, including possible injuries. Attention should also be paid to factors causing pain in a particular patient. It is very important in the interview to determine the location of pain, as well as its intensity.

Neurological examinations are also conducted, which are considered the gold standard, i.e., an essential element of neuralgia diagnostics. The neurologist in the examination should assess the functions of the nervous system, checking sensation, muscle strength, reflexes, and other parameters that may affect the occurrence of neuralgia. This allows for localizing the area where the nerves are damaged.

Along with them, laboratory tests are used, especially in cases where there is a justified suspicion that the neuralgia is the result of systemic diseases the patient has. For this purpose, blood glucose levels or inflammatory markers are tested, while immunological tests are less common.

In many cases, the diagnosis of neuralgia requires more advanced techniques. Therefore, some patients are referred for magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography, which aim to accurately image the body's anatomical structures. This allows for identifying structural changes in the nervous system. These can be one of the potential causes of neuralgia, hence it is worth knowing about them. Electromyography is also helpful, which examines nerve conduction, allowing for the assessment of nerve and muscle function, and thus any possible damage.
Neurological examinations, head tomography, brain MRI

Treating nerve pain

Effective and lasting neuralgia treatment requires a holistic approach that considers both pharmacotherapy and various types of non-pharmacological treatments, always under the supervision of a specialist. The nature of neuralgia means that the treatment plan must be tailored to the specifics of the individual patient.

The first line of treatment includes pain relief medications, primarily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or ketoprofen, which are available over the counter. Opioid medications, including tramadol or oxycodone, are used in the second line, but these can be addictive. They should be used with caution, only after consulting a doctor.

Sometimes, certain antiepileptic drugs are used, mainly for patients with diabetic polyneuropathy, who are advised to take gabapentin or pregabalin, which provide significant relief. Similarly, a certain group of antidepressants, specifically some selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and a selected part of the group of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).

In cases of advanced neuralgia, invasive therapies are increasingly used, such as injection therapies based on nerve blockers. Sometimes, steroid injections are used, which reduce inflammation around damaged nerves. In the long term, however, neurostimulation is used, which requires surgical intervention. It involves the implantation of a neurostimulator that sends electrical impulses to the affected areas.

Treating neuralgia is a complex process that requires patience and commitment from both the patient and the medical team, which should be interdisciplinary. It's also worthwhile to include psychological therapy and physiotherapy so that patients with neuralgia can improve their biopsychosocial functioning despite their condition.
Nerve pain, treating nerve pain, preventing headaches

Alternative therapies for nerve pain

Neuralgia is also treated with alternative therapies, which sometimes replace traditional methods. These approaches spark controversy among some, yet patient reports indicate they can be effective. Some of them seem to provide relief to patients when conventional treatment fails to produce results, or is hard to tolerate.

Patients often use acupuncture, an ancient treatment method originating from Chinese medicine but known worldwide. It involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. Acupuncture for neuralgia can be effective in pain relief by regulating the flow of life energy (chi) in the body.

Therapeutic massage is also popularly used, which should be considered a complement to conventional neuralgia treatment, as there are very rarely any contraindications to it. A physiotherapist, through manipulating soft tissues, can help relieve muscle tension, which leads to reduced pain perception while improving blood circulation.

Some patients use aromatherapy based on natural essential oils derived from plants, not synthetically produced. Some oils, such as those from lavender or peppermint, have relaxing and analgesic properties. Similar to medicinal plants, which can be consumed in many forms, including infusions, extracts, or capsules, depending on preference. The most common are turmeric, fenugreek, and St. John's wort, but this is not an exhaustive list.

In some cases, hypnotherapy, commonly known as hypnosis, is helpful. It should be performed by an experienced psychologist with the appropriate qualifications. During a psychological trance, techniques aimed at focusing attention on specific thoughts, images, or suggestions can be applied to the patient. This may help in reducing nervous tension, improving the ability to cope with neuralgia. Biofeedback, which allows for conscious control of the body, is also worth using for this purpose.
Stress-related pain, psychotherapy in pain management, nerve pains

Psychological aspects of nerve pain

Neuralgia is a frequently encountered neurological disorder, hence it interests many specialists, including health psychologists, among whom is Mateusz Nesterok, MSc - our company psychologist, who has extensive experience working with somatically ill patients.

He points out that neuropathic pain affects not only the body but also has a significant psychological dimension that should not be forgotten. Therefore, the emotional and social aspects of pain play a large role in patients' lives. They are related to the onset of pain, but also to its management.

It's important to remember that prolonged stress can affect the occurrence of neuralgias and the ability to cope with pain that has already appeared. In stressful situations, the body reacts by increasing muscle tension, which in turn intensifies the perception of neuralgia.

Neuralgia sometimes coexists with depression, one of the most common affective disorders. These additionally fuel each other, which is not beneficial for the patient. Pain can lead to a worsening of mood, and in turn, a worsened mood usually increases the perception of pain, creating a vicious circle. This, in some people, complicates effective treatment, as both conditions reinforce each other.

Considering psychotherapy, which yields interesting results in the treatment of neuralgias, is worthwhile. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is primarily used, along with relaxation techniques or body scanning. They can be effective in the proper management of the psychological aspects of neuralgia. A psychologist can also conduct psychoeducation, which can improve the patient's quality of life. All this helps in the identification and modification of pain-related behaviors.

As Nesterok emphasizes, psychological support plays a crucial role in the treatment process of neuralgia. Patients experiencing neuropathic pain sometimes feel frustration, sadness, or a sense of helplessness. Meanwhile, appropriate psychological support, both from family and professionals, often brings emotional relief, improving the quality of life.
Pain therapy, relaxation techniques, exercises for pain

Effective prevention of nerve pain

Effective and lasting prevention of neuralgias is important for maintaining proper functioning of the nervous system, which in turn minimizes the risk of severe neuropathic pain. Although it's not always possible to avoid neuralgias, there are strategies and habits that can significantly reduce the risk of their occurrence.

The foundation of protection against neuralgia is leading a healthy lifestyle. It's no secret that regular physical activity supports overall health. Similarly, a balanced diet based on well-balanced foods, as well as adequate sleep on good mattresses and pillows, all help in repairing nerve damage, reducing the risk of diseases.

For some people, it's important to avoid risk factors, such as excessive exposure to any toxic substances, if they come into contact with them. In others, it's necessary to limit exposure to vibrations or improper body positioning, which is especially true in workplaces. Taking care of life ergonomics significantly lowers the risk of nerve damage.
An inappropriate mattress can exacerbate neuropathic pain!
Preventing neuralgias is based on treatment and control of symptoms of diseases that can cause them, especially diabetes and autoimmune diseases, which are most often the culprits of neuralgias. Only regular medical check-ups combined with close cooperation with a doctor allow for early detection and treatment of potential threats.

It's also important to avoid overloading, but at the same time to perform daily healthy exercises that reduce the risk of injuries. Properly conducted muscle stretching strengthens the entire body. Of course, while maintaining relaxation techniques that support the health of the nervous system.

Maintaining proper ergonomics at work, as well as in daily life, involves adjusting furniture to the anatomical curves of the body. Not just to feel comfortable, but in such a way as to somewhat force the body to work muscles, especially around the spine. The task of true ergonomic furniture is to prevent their atrophy.

Proper ergonomics at the workplace and in daily life can help prevent muscle and nerve strains. Therefore, it's extremely important to have correct furniture placement, but also fully ergonomic work tools. It's also necessary to take regular breaks from prolonged sitting, which reduces the risk of neuralgias.

As for sleep hygiene, special attention should be paid to the mattress you own, as manufacturers often miss the truth. As a result, a so-called medical mattress may turn out to be a product that progressively destroys health instead of helping to improve it.

For individuals with neuralgias, preventive measures based on regular visits to a physiotherapist are often recommended to maintain physical fitness. This mainly aims to prevent muscle tension by forming good habits. It will also benefit stress management, as maintaining mental balance in many patients translates into a lower risk of neuropathic pain.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.
Mattresses, mattress store, mattress factory

FAQ: Nerve pain

What is effective for nerve pain?

The effectiveness of treating nerve pain depends on individual factors and the cause of the pain. Therapies may include pain medications, including triptans, as well as psychotherapy, procedural interventions, and alternative methods such as acupuncture or meditation. It is important to develop an appropriate treatment plan in collaboration with a neurologist or psychiatrist.

How to check if you have nerve pain?

Nerve pain typically manifests as a sharp, piercing pain. Often, nerve pain is accompanied by tingling, burning, or numbness. In addition, individuals experiencing nerve pain may notice difficulties in feeling in the affected area. If you suspect nerve pain in yourself, consult with a doctor.

What can nerve pain indicate?

Nerve pain can indicate various conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, mechanical nerve damage, autoimmune diseases, or neurological disorders. Stress and psychosocial difficulties can also influence the occurrence of nerve pain.

What are the signs of nerve pain?

Signs of nerve pain may include sharp, piercing pain, tingling, burning, or numbness in the affected area. Patients often experience difficulties in precisely localizing the pain, making the diagnosis of nerve pain challenging.

Are nerve pains dangerous?

Nerve pains themselves are not dangerous but can significantly impact the patient's quality of life. The danger mainly arises from potential complications related to the underlying cause of nerve pain, such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or nerve damage. It is crucial to consult with a doctor for proper diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.

Contents
Causes of nerve pain
Diagnosing nerve pain
Treating nerve pain
Alternative therapies for nerve pain
Psychological aspects of nerve pain
Effective prevention of nerve pain
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