Have you ever felt a sharp, shooting pain that seems to come out of nowhere? Or maybe a burning sensation that lingers long after the original injury heals? That could be neuropathic pain, also known as nerve pain and it's not just in your head.In this blog, we’ll dive into what nerve pain is, what causes it, how it feels, and what you can do to treat it. Let’s break it down in simple, straight-talk terms.
What is Neuropathic Pain?
Neuropathic pain happens when your nervous system gets damaged or starts working improperly. Unlike pain from a cut or a bruise, nerve pain doesn’t respond well to typical painkillers. It’s a bit trickier and often more frustrating.Instead of pain being a response to injury, your nerves themselves become the problem. They fire pain signals even when there’s no clear reason. This pain can last for months or even years if untreated.
What Does Nerve Pain Feel Like?
People describe neuropathic pain symptoms in many different ways, but common sensations include:
Sharp, shooting, or stabbing pain
Burning or tingling (like pins and needles)
Numbness or weakness
Sensitivity to touch (even light touch feels painful)
Electric shock-like jolts
Persistent dull aches
Sometimes, nerve pain comes and goes. Other times, it’s constant. It can affect your ability to sleep, work, and enjoy life.
What are the Common Types of Nerve Pain?
Sciatic nerve pain (sciatica) shoots down from your lower back into your buttocks, legs, and sometimes feet. It often happens when something compresses your sciatic nerve like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis. The pain can feel sharp, burning, or even like an electric jolt.
This can stem from sciatica, peripheral neuropathy, or injuries that affect nerves in your thigh, calf, or foot. People often report weakness, numbness, or sharp pain in one or both legs.
Nerve pain in the hand might result from carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetes, or even repetitive stress injuries. It can make simple tasks like typing or buttoning a shirt—unbearable.
What Causes Neuropathic Pain?
Several conditions and injuries can lead to nerve damage. Here are some of the most common causes of nerve pain:
Diabetes – High blood sugar damages nerves over time. This is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy.
Infections – Shingles (herpes zoster), HIV, and Lyme disease can all cause nerve damage.
Injuries – Trauma from car accidents, surgery, or fractures can damage nerves directly.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) – MS damages the protective covering of nerves, leading to misfired pain signals.
Chemotherapy – Some cancer treatments trigger long-term nerve pain.
Alcohol abuse – Chronic drinking can wear down your nerves over time.
Herniated discs or spinal stenosis – These compress nerve roots in the spine, often leading to shooting pain.
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage in the peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord). It often affects the hands and feet first.
Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms
Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
Burning pain
Loss of coordination or balance
Muscle weakness
Numbness in fingers or toes
Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can progress and lead to serious mobility issues.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Nerve Pain?
To diagnose neuropathic pain, your doctor may:
Ask about your symptoms and medical history
Conduct a physical and neurological exam
Run blood tests to check for underlying conditions (like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies)
Order imaging tests like MRI or CT scans
Use nerve conduction studies or EMG to measure nerve activity
Getting the right diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.
Neuropathy Treatment & Relief Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all cure for neuropathy treatment, but several options can ease your pain and improve your quality of life.
Medications
Antidepressants help block nerve pain signals
Anticonvulsants reduce nerve firing
Topical treatments like lidocaine patches or capsaicin cream
Painkillers, though opioids are rarely first-line treatment
Lifestyle & Home Remedies
Manage blood sugar if you have diabetes
Exercise regularly to boost circulation and nerve function
Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins B1, B6, and B12
Avoid alcohol and quit smoking
Get enough sleep to support healing
Advanced Treatments
If medication and lifestyle changes don’t work, doctors might recommend:
Nerve blocks or steroid injections
Spinal cord stimulation
Physical therapy
TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
Surgery, in rare cases, to relieve pressure on a nerve
Conclusion
Living with nerve pain can be exhausting but you’re not alone, and you do have options. Whether you’re dealing with sciatic nerve pain, nerve pain in the leg or hand, or symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, there are ways to manage your discomfort and reclaim your daily life.
The key is to get an accurate diagnosis and tailor your treatment plan to your specific needs. Don’t ignore those strange sensations or persistent pain. Your nerves might be trying to tell you something important.
Article By Dr. Vivek Barun
Sr. Consultant - Neurology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a weird tingling or burning feeling in my feet. Should I be worried?
Yes, if it’s persistent or worsening, it’s worth getting checked. Neuropathic pain can start with odd sensations like tingling, burning, or numbness. Catching it early can help prevent further nerve damage.
Can I catch nerve pain from someone else?
Nope, nerve pain isn’t contagious. It comes from damage or dysfunction in your own nerves—not from contact with another person.
Can stress or lifestyle cause nerve pain?
Stress alone doesn’t cause it, but it can make the pain feel worse. Lifestyle factors like poor blood sugar control (in diabetes), alcohol use, or lack of exercise can definitely raise your risk.
I live in Gurgaon. Do I need to travel far for good treatment?
Not at all. Gurgaon has great options like Artemis Hospital, where you can get expert care for nerve pain—no need to head to a big metro unless referred.
Will I need surgery for nerve pain? That sounds scary.
In most cases, no. Neuropathic pain is usually treated with medications, physical therapy, or nerve blocks. Surgery is rare and only used in specific cases when other treatments haven’t helped.
Can I drive after treatment for nerve pain?
If you’re getting a simple procedure or just taking medication, you can usually drive. But if you’ve had sedation or a nerve block, better to bring someone with you just in case.
How soon can I go back to my daily routine?
Most people can continue their normal activities while managing nerve pain. Treatment might include physical therapy or medication, which you can often fit into your schedule.
Is nerve pain something only older people get? I’m in my 30s.
No, it can affect people of any age. Injuries, diabetes, infections, or even vitamin deficiencies can trigger nerve pain in younger adults too.
I’ve been ignoring the tingling in my hands for months. Is that bad?
Yes, it’s best not to ignore it. Tingling or numbness could be early signs of nerve damage. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.
Can homeopathy or herbal treatments cure nerve pain?
There’s no solid proof they work. Medical treatments like nerve pain meds, physical therapy, and sometimes electrical stimulation are far more effective. Don’t delay proper care—nerve damage can worsen over time.
