Neuropathic Pain
Nerve-related syndromes like neuropathy cause nearly 16% of the chronic pain suffered by Americans. At Atlantic Spine and Joint Pain Center LLC, board-certified interventional pain medicine doctor Edward Alexeev, MD, understands neuropathy and its treatment challenges. Just like you, nerve pain is unique and needs personalized treatment. Dr. Alexeev offers innovative, leading-edge, noninvasive and minimally invasive solutions for neuropathy in the Manalapan, New Jersey, office. Call the office today or click online booking to book your appointment.
Neuropathic Pain Q & A
Are neuropathy and nerve damage the same thing?
Yes, the term neuropathy refers to nerve damage. The many nerves in your body have their unique roles to play, and neuropathy can damage any of them., These nerve types include:
- Motor nerves: nerves controlling your muscles and movement
- Sensory nerves: nerves controlling pain and sensation
- Autonomic nerves: nerves controlling essential functions like breathing and heartbeat
Damage can occur in several types of nerves as well. For example, people with peripheral neuropathy experience symptoms in the peripheral nerves that travel to their extremities (arms and legs). It mainly causes sensory symptoms but can also cause motor problems and, in severe cases, autonomic issues.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy pain versus other pain?
Nerve pain is among the most intense pains you can experience. A few symptoms that could indicate your pain is neuropathic include:
- Burning sensation
- Electric sensation
- Numbness
- Pins-and-needles or prickling feeling
- Tingling sensation
Other types of pain are more likely to start with soreness, while neuropathic pain usually feels sharp right away.
And other types of pain, including joint pain, are more likely to show up in areas like the hips and knees. Neuropathic pain tends to be felt in the arms, hands, legs, and feet. But you can also experience neuropathy symptoms in other areas.
Over time, peripheral neuropathy can affect the muscles that the damaged nerves serve, so you might experience new muscle problems like stumbling, poor coordination, or a dragging foot.
How is neuropathy treated?
Neuropathy treatment varies with the patient, type of neuropathy, and symptoms. Dr. Alexeev completes a neurological exam, reviews your medical history, and, in most cases, conducts electrodiagnostic testing like electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) to diagnose neuropathy.
Treatments usually include a blend of therapies like:
- Physical medicine and rehabilitation
- Bracing
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Anti-seizure drugs
- Antidepressants
- Topical pain-relief creams
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit for home use
- Therapeutic nerve blocks
- Steroid injections
- Restorative medicine like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS)
Dr. Alexeev also supports treatments like physical therapy, chiropractic, and acupuncture.
Call Atlantic Spine and Joint Pain Center LLC today or book an appointment online for a long-term solution to your nerve pain.
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