Neurological nerve damage is a common problem that can cause debilitating symptoms such as intense pain, tingling or numbness in the extremities. It occurs when certain nerves are damaged due to trauma, genetics, or exposure to toxins. In this article, we'll cover some of the different causes of neurological nerve damage, as well as treatment options for relieving the associated pain.
Know the Symptoms of Nerve Damage.
It's important to know the signs and symptoms of nerve damage, as these can alert you to potential underlying conditions. Symptoms to look out for include pain that radiates over a wide area, burning sensations or tingling in the extremities, weakness or paralysis of limbs, muscle cramps, loss of balance or coordination, and numbness. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms for more than 6 weeks, it is essential that you make an appointment with your doctor to diagnose and treat the underlying cause.
Diagnosing Nerve Damage.
The first step in diagnosing nerve damage is to get a comprehensive medical history, followed by an examination. Your doctor will also ask about any medications you are taking and your lifestyle choices, as well as whether or not you have any known conditions. You may be referred to a specialist for further testing such as MRI, CT scan, or EMG (electromyogram) to assess the extent of the damage. Depending on your symptoms and diagnosis, your doctor may recommend steroids or other medicines for symptom relief and refer you for physical therapy or surgery.
Traumatic Injury and Nerve Damage.
Traumatic injury can damage the nerve directly, resulting in pain, numbness and paralysis. This type of nerve damage can occur when something presses against the nerve or when a fracture or dislocation traps it in one spot. It can also happen when something like a surgical instrument tears or cuts the nerve while operating. Motor nerve damage caused by trauma includes drop foot, claw hand, and muscle weakness.
Non-traumatic Causes of Neurological Damage.
Another common cause of neurological nerve damage is due to non-traumatic causes. These include a wide range of medical conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or any autoimmune disorder. Infections, toxins, and radiation are also known to cause nerve damage. While these underlying medical conditions cannot be cured with surgery or physical therapy, there are treatments available to alleviate the pain and help manage symptoms.
Treatment Options for Neurological Nerve Damage.
Treatment options for neurological nerve damage vary depending on the underlying cause of the condition. In general, treatment includes medications, physical and occupational therapy, lifestyle modifications such as diet or exercise changes, or surgery. Many patients report success using complementary therapies such as acupuncture and yoga to help reduce pain levels and improve their overall quality of life.
Additional resources available to read
Brain & Spine Foundation | Neuropathic pain (brainandspine.org.uk)
Peripheral neuropathy - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Peripheral neuropathy - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Neurological Pain Syndromes | Sacramento Hospitals | Dignity Health
Neuropathic Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment (healthline.com)
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