How to treat nerve pain

Treating nerve pain means treating the cause and easing the pain. It takes time, and a combination of steps usually works best.

Step 1: find the cause

A doctor examines you and may order blood tests for sugar, B12, thyroid, kidney and liver function, nerve conduction studies or MRI.

Step 2: treat the cause

• Control diabetes
• Correct vitamin B12 or other deficiencies
• Stop alcohol and any medicine that harms nerves
• Relieve pressure on the nerve with physiotherapy, injections or surgery when needed
• Treat shingles early with antivirals

Step 3: relieve pain

Medicines such as gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine or low-dose amitriptyline, and patches or creams for localised pain, as prescribed.

Step 4: physical therapy and lifestyle

Gentle exercise, physiotherapy, good posture, foot care and sleep habits.

Step 5: other options

For stubborn pain, nerve blocks, nerve stimulation or pain-clinic care.

Step 6: protect from harm

Check numb areas daily, avoid hot packs on numb skin and wear proper footwear.

Where Ayurveda fits

Therapies such as gentle massage may offer comfort, but they must not replace medical treatment.

Emergency (112 or 102): sudden weakness of a limb or face, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe back pain with numbness in the groin.

Remember

Be patient. Nerves heal slowly, and the earlier the cause is treated, the better.

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.