Neuropathic pain is often described as a burning sensation or a feeling of numbness accompanied by pins and needles. No matter what kind of nerve pain you experience, there is no doubt about it – nerve damage is a painful condition that can lead to depression, discomfort and trouble with mobility. Even if you have tried several nerve pain treatments to no avail, new products come on the market every day and there are a well of already available methods as well as medications that can greatly improve pain.
Gabapentin
Gabapentin is a drug that provides your body with more of a chemical that it already produces naturally. The main usage of gabapentin is cited for those who suffer with seizures such as epilepsy. However, this drug is also a vitally important drug for those who live with nerve pain. The drug can be taken up to three times a day in doses directed by your doctor. If your nerve pain is caused by a multiple sclerosis diagnosis, it can also help with spasticity if you are fearful of using muscle relaxants which can become addictive. Gabapentin is not considered habit forming.
Physical Therapy
Neuropathic pain can leave you not wanting to move around as much as before… but the less that you move the more heightened pain can become. A physical therapist can use techniques like stretching, massage and training to make moving easier. Many people see a vast improvement in their pain after beginning treatment and can use the techniques they learned while at therapy at home as well.
TENS Unit
A TENS unit is a device that sends tiny electrical impulses to areas of pain. This is both safe and effective, transported by electrodes – the same you might see while receiving an EKG test. Do not be shied away from this small but mighty pain management powerhouse… the electrical impulses are entirely painless.
Hot and Cold Therapy
When medications are not an option or you need relief prior to receiving a prescription. Alternating hot and cold compresses can provide instant relief. While not as powerful as medications, these methods can help you relax and enjoy some downtime. Some find heat to be more beneficial and others prefer cold. However, you should always test the temperature of each before using on a portion of your body that does not have nerve issues. It may be difficult to determine temperatures that are too hot or too cold on nerves that are damaged. Testing beforehand can protect against burns and frostbite.
This is only a short list of basic nerve pain treatments. Your doctor will have several ideas on how to make your condition more manageable. From diabetes to injuries as well as MS and other neurological disorders, remember there are many ways to ease nerve pain and while it may take time to discover the one that works for you, you will get there with a little patience and support from your doctor.
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