Pain is a protective measure in your body that is meant to act as a warning that something is wrong. The nervous system is responsible for sending pain signals to the brain. However, this important warning system can be damaged and affect nerve function. Some people don’t realize that their nervous system is not working properly and write off any pain they experience.
People struggle with nerve pain every day and sadly, many dismiss it until it becomes unbearable.
If you think that you’re experiencing nerve pain, get in contact with the specialists at Academy Orthopedics right away.
Are You Suffering from Nerve Pain?
Nerves carry electrical signals that transmit information to your brain. Nerve pain – also known as neuropathic pain or neuralgia – can be a result of injuries, medical conditions, or neurological disorders that cause nerve damage. It manifests in different ways, but often feels like a numbness or an unpleasant burning, shooting, or stabbing sensation.
Another symptom that commonly occurs in people with nerve pain is an increased sensitivity to cold or physical touch. You may be suffering from nerve pain if a normal interaction that shouldn’t hurt causes you pain. For example, if it is painful when someone lightly taps you or grazes your skin.
Nerve pain can affect every area of your life, making so many things less enjoyable. It makes it difficult to sleep, exercise, concentrate, sit in one place for an extended period of time, or even hug a loved one.
If left untreated, not only will people experiencing nerve issues be in a state of constant pain, but it can also have a negative impact on their mental health and overall happiness.
The Different Types of Nerves and Nerve Issues
The central nervous system is made up of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is made up of the trillions of nerves that branch off of the central nervous system and reach all other parts of the body. Nerve problems can occur anywhere along the central or peripheral nervous system.
Here are the types of peripheral nerves:
Motor Nerves: These nerves handle your body’s general movement by sending signals from your brain to your muscles.
Sensory Nerves: These nerves handle sending the electrical signals that tell your spinal cord and brain what is going on with your muscles and skin. They tell your body when something is cold, hot, smooth, sharp, wet, dry, and so on. They tell the brain when to feel pain.
Autonomic Nerves: These nerves involuntarily (or mostly involuntary) handle things like your breathing, digestion, temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, etc.
There are various types of nerve pain, and there are different names that often relate to different parts of the body. Here are some common types of nerve pain:
Medial: Nerve pain in the hand, wrist, and arm. Most often caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.
Occipital: Nerve pain in the back of the head, typically the base of the skull.
Pudendal: Nerve pain between the legs and pelvis.
Trigeminal: Nerve pain in the cheeks or jaw.
Post-Herpetic: Nerve pain that occurs after experiencing herpes zoster (shingles) on the left and right sides of the torso.
How to Treat Nerve Pain
Some of the best methods to treat or reduce nerve pain are:
- Soaking in warm water.
- Certain topical solutions, such as capsaicin cream or anesthetic lidocaine.
- Reducing alcohol intake.
- Certain stretches and exercises.
Remember that these methods might relieve the pain temporarily, but the best approach to a true wellness plan is to have a medical professional at Academy Orthopedics give you a formal check-up. Some nerve pain requires medications, injections, physical therapy, or surgery.
Academy Orthopedics: Your Answer for Nerve Pain
No matter what kind of nerve issues you are dealing with, Academy Orthopedics is the team you can trust.
We always put you, the patient, at the forefront of our practice – something that a lot of large health centers just can’t deliver. We consider our patients part of our family. We always will listen to your concerns and give you the time and attention you deserve.
We have locations in Cumming, Buford, and Duluth, Georgia and proudly serve the surrounding communities.
Whether you’re looking for a new treatment for existing nerve pain or think you might be suffering from undiagnosed nerve issues, we’re here to help. Our dedicated staff is always happy to answer your questions.
Give us a call today at 770-271-9857 or contact us online to set up an appointment.