Home remedies for nerve pain

Home care eases symptoms and protects the nerve while the cause is treated. It does not replace medical care.

Comfort measures

• Warm bath or warm compress: only on skin with normal feeling, never on numb areas, and check the temperature with an elbow
• Gentle massage: light massage may relax muscles
• Rest and position: avoid pressure on the painful nerve, such as sitting long on a hard surface for sciatica
• Light movement: short walks and gentle stretching

Protect numb skin

• Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters and sores
• Wear well-fitting shoes and soft socks, never walk barefoot
• Test bath water with your elbow

Sleep

• Keep the room cool if burning pain worsens at night
• Use a light cover or a cradle that keeps bedsheets off sensitive feet
• Regular bedtime routine

Daily habits

• Keep blood sugar in range if you have diabetes
• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Eat regular meals with enough vitamin B12 foods
• Avoid long periods of one posture or repeated pressure on the wrist or elbow

Ease mood and stress

Breathing exercises, light yoga and talking to someone can reduce the stress that makes pain feel worse.

Do not

• Apply hot packs or hot oil to numb skin
• Rub strong chemicals or unknown creams on broken skin
• Give herbs or oils to infants or young children

Remember

See a doctor if pain lasts, spreads or you notice weakness. Emergencies call 112 or 102.

When to get help

See a doctor if you have burning, tingling or numbness that lasts, spreads or is linked to diabetes, or if there is weakness. Do not self-medicate for long periods, avoid unknown herbal products, and do not use oils, herbs or home remedies on infants or young children without a paediatrician's advice. In an emergency call 112 or 102.