6 things you can do to treat nerve pain
Nerve pain can be an annoying and sometimes chronic problem. That is why it is important to treat nerve pain properly and to be able to relieve pain. We’ll tell you what the symptoms are, what you can do about them and present some treatment options.
What are the symptoms of nerve pain?
Nerve pain is also called neuropathy or neuropathic pain. It can occur in different parts of the body and can manifest itself in different ways. However, there are some symptoms by which you can recognize it:
- Shooting pain or a burning sensation: it may come on suddenly and last for a while;
- Tingling: you may experience a prickling or tingling sensation. Some people compare it to pins and needles;
- Hypersensitivity: the area where you have nerve pain can become sensitive. Even light touch or temperature differences can then be annoying;
- Spontaneous pain: you can get spontaneous pain without knowing where it comes from;
- Numbness: nerve pain can also manifest itself as having less sensation or a dull feeling;
- Heightened pain response: stimuli that normally do not cause pain can now be very unpleasant. This is also called allodynia;
- Temperature differences: the affected area may feel colder or warmer than usual. You may also experience chills or a warm feeling without any real change in temperature;
- Muscle weakness: nerve pain may also be associated with damage to motor nerves. In this case, muscle weakness may occur.
Symptoms can be different in everyone. It depends on the cause, the nerves involved and the intensity of the nerve pain. If you suffer from these symptoms, it is wise to consult a doctor.
What makes nerve pain worse?
It is possible for the pain to get worse due to certain factors. This varies from person to person, and it does not have to get worse in everyone. Common factors that can make pain worse are:
- Stress;
- Certain movements;
- Bad attitude;
- Temperature changes;
- Alcohol consumption;
- Poor nutrition;
- Inactivity;
- Poor (sleep) hygiene;
- Chronic diseases;
- Certain medications.
It is important to be able to analyze what makes the symptoms worse. If necessary, consult a doctor to be able to formulate a plan.
Is nerve pain curable?
Nerve pain is often difficult to cure. Because it is usually caused by damage or dysfunction to the nervous system, it is something that is difficult to resolve. Whether it can be treated properly depends on its severity and cause. However, there are certain treatment methods you can follow to relieve pain and prevent further damage. These include low level laser therapy is increasingly used as a treatment method for nerve pain.
How long does nerve pain take to heal?
In special cases, however, it is possible to get rid of this pain completely. How long this takes is difficult to determine. There are different types of this pain, and they all require a different approach. These forms of nerve pain exist:
- Chronic;
- Acute;
- Pain from recovery or illness;
- Postoperative;
- Nerve damage from infections.
To know for sure if the pain is curable and how to do so, it is wise to consult a doctor.
Can nerve pain be permanent?
So yes, it can be a persistent pain. Especially if left untreated, symptoms can worsen. It is important not to neglect the pain. Below we tell you different treatment methods for nerve pain.
How do I get rid of nerve pain? 6 tips to treat it
1. Painkillers and medication
Painkillers
In mild pain, painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with nerve pain. In severe cases, this is usually less effective. Your doctor may prescribe other painkillers in that case.
Medication
Medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin are often used to treat nerve pain. Only a doctor can prescribe the right medication for you.
2. Physical Therapy
Mobilization exercises
Physical therapy can help improve mobility. It also helps strengthen muscles and reduces pressure on nerves. As a result, pain to the nerves can be relieved.
3. Lifestyle modifications
Healthy nutrition
Eating a balanced diet can help support nerves and reduce pain. Be sure to eat foods with enough vitamins and minerals.
Regular physical activity
Regular exercise makes your body more flexible. This can reduce pain and improve overall nerve health.
Stress Management
A lot of stress can make pain worse. Therefore, try techniques such as meditation, yoga or mindfulness to reduce stress.
4. Light therapy
Red light therapy
Low level laser therapy or red light therapy is increasingly used in the treatment of nerve pain. This treatment method improves blood flow and goes deep into the tissues and cells of the body. It restores the energy in the cells, contributing to pain relief. It is a good alternative pain relief for nerve pain. We’ll tell you more about red light therapy for nerve pain later in this article.
5. Local treatments
Capsaicin Cream
This cream is made from chili pepper extract and can be applied directly to the skin. It temporarily “numbs” the pain receptors, which can briefly reduce your nerve pain.
Lidocaine patches
These patches can temporarily numb the nerves. It can be applied directly to the area to relieve pain. This is not a treatment, but it is a temporary solution against pain.
6. Alternative therapies
Acupuncture
Acupuncture helps restore energy balance in the body and improve blood circulation. This can relieve nerve pain.
Massage
Gentle massage can reduce muscle strain and improve blood flow. This is a fine and relaxing method for pain relief.
Nerve pain and red light therapy
Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy, can help well with nerve pain and neuropathy. The low level of red light penetrates deeply into tissues without heating. This creates several beneficial effects:
Cellular healing;
Reduction of inflammation;
Improved blood circulation;
Pain relief.
These properties make red light therapy an effective treatment for various causes of complaint. It is a safe treatment method with little to no side effects.
We have helped many people reduce or prevent pain, complaints and various conditions. See all experiences with ankle pain as well as other experiences with our PowerCure low level laser.
Is there science behind red light therapy?
The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions.
What can PowerCure’s laser therapy do for your nerve pain?
The PowerCure laser is an effective treatment method for pain, inflammation, disorders, injuries and more. In addition, it is also a useful treatment for nerve pain or other nerve complaints. By treating with the laser for a few minutes daily, it is already possible to reduce pain and symptoms. View our treatment protocol for nerve pain here.
Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help you with? Then especially take a look here.