Adults only (18+)

How to Relieve Nerve Pain

Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, can be a challenging and distressing experience. Unlike typical aches or muscle soreness, nerve pain often feels like burning, shooting, stabbing or tingling sensations. It may occur suddenly or develop gradually, affecting different parts of the body. Understanding what nerve pain is, why it happens and how to relieve it can help you manage symptoms more effectively.

What Causes Nerve Pain?

Nerve pain arises when nerves are damaged or irritated. This can happen due to a variety of reasons including injury, infections such as shingles, diabetes (leading to diabetic neuropathy), multiple sclerosis, or pressure from conditions like a herniated disc. Sometimes, the cause is unknown.

The damaged nerves send incorrect signals to the brain, which leads to sensations of pain even when there is no obvious cause on the skin or muscles.

How Nerve Pain Feels

People describe nerve pain in many ways, including burning, electric shocks, stabbing, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling. The pain can be constant or intermittent and may worsen at night. Some also experience heightened sensitivity, where even light touch causes discomfort.

How to Relieve Nerve Pain

Managing nerve pain often requires a combination of treatments and self-care strategies.

Medications prescribed by a doctor may include specific nerve pain treatments such as certain antidepressants, anticonvulsants or topical creams containing lidocaine or capsaicin. Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen may help with mild symptoms but often are less effective for nerve pain.

Physical therapy can improve mobility and reduce pain by strengthening muscles and improving posture. Gentle exercise, stretching and techniques like massage may also ease discomfort.

Lifestyle changes such as managing blood sugar levels in diabetes, quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent further nerve damage.

Complementary therapies, including acupuncture or mindfulness meditation, may provide additional relief for some people.

It is important to protect affected areas from injury, especially if numbness or reduced sensation is present, as you might not notice cuts or burns.

When to See a GP

If you experience persistent burning, tingling or numbness, or pain following an injury or infection, it is important to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes. Your GP may refer you to a specialist for further tests or treatment.

Emotional Impact

Living with nerve pain can be isolating and frustrating. Chronic pain affects mood, sleep and quality of life. Support from healthcare professionals, counselling and pain management programmes can help you cope better.

Final Thoughts

Nerve pain is complex but can often be managed with the right combination of medical treatment, self-care and lifestyle adjustments. If you experience symptoms of nerve pain, consult your GP for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan. Taking steps early can improve your comfort and help you maintain your daily activities.