Neuropathic (Nerve-Incited) Pain Treatment
Acute pain is protective in nature. Upon sustaining an injury, our pain reflexes kick in the form of acute pain to reduce further harm. However, when our nerves, which are responsible for sending signals to our muscles, are injured, these signals may go haywire. A case of damaged nerves can be caused by chronic illnesses, physical accidents or other conditions and illnesses without visible injuries.
The medical description for pain that arises from nerve damage is neuropathic pain. While pain signals are all transmitted by the nerves in our body, nerve injury can produce different signs and symptoms.
For example, neuropathic pain can present itself as electric shocks, extreme cold or burning sensations, be accompanied by skin changes or even osteoporosis. The affected limb may also become extremely sensitive to touch.
While this category of pain is usually identified from such observed symptoms carried by the patient, a further clinical examination can prove to be useful. This is because the pain may not only arise from nerve damage. A professional will evaluate any possible chronic protective postures or movements, or even the lack thereof – adding another dimension of the patient’s muscular pain.
Following the examination, here are a few standard treatment options in Singapore that are meant to be sought in complement with one another and not in isolation.
Pain medication
The intake of regular painkillers (paracetamol, anti-inflammatories, opioids) are not effective in treating neuropathic pain. While these painkillers may provide temporary relief, an over-reliance is likely to lead to an increase in dosage but with a lowered level of effectiveness. Should the patient require specific neuropathic pain medication, the doctor will discuss the prescription in detail.
Physical therapy
Physiotherapy may be beneficial in strengthening and mobilising weakened limbs. Other avenues of physical therapy include desensitisation or electrical stimulation therapy. The use of such nerve physiotherapy helps to bring nerve pain relief to the patient.
Pain intervention
Pain intervention involves giving the affected nerves a rest. This is typically done by injecting the patient with local anaesthetic and other medications or giving compressed nerves the space to mobilise. These may be performed with the guidance of an X-ray or ultrasound scan. In cases where surgery may be beneficial, an appropriate surgical referral will be made for the patient.
If you have been experiencing any of the above symptoms and suspected to have contracted neuropathic pain, it’s best to seek a professional immediately. Here at The Anaesthesia And Pain Practice, led by pain management physician and certified anaesthesiologist Dr Daniel Phang, our skilful team believes our patients deserve to be treated in a swift yet comfortable way with utmost care and respect.
With experience in pain management from his fellowship at the renowned Toronto Western Hospital and a consultant cum lecturer at the Singapore General Hospital, Dr Phang is highly proficient in the use of image-guided intervention.
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