Stages of nerve pain

Nerve pain does not follow a single fixed set of stages, but it usually moves in a pattern that depends on the cause and how early it is treated.

Early stage

Mild tingling, numbness or burning, often in the toes or along one limb. Symptoms may come and go. This is the best time to find and treat the cause, for example by controlling blood sugar, correcting vitamin B12 or relieving pressure on a nerve.

Established stage

Pain becomes constant or severe, with sleep problems and loss of feeling. Daily activities and mood may be affected. Medicines for nerve pain are usually started at this stage.

Advanced stage

Weakness, muscle wasting and balance problems appear. In diabetes, numb feet can develop sores and infection that heal poorly. Deformity of the foot may occur.

After the cause is treated

Nerves heal slowly, around a millimetre a day, so pain and sensation can take months to improve. Some damage may be permanent.

Acute emergencies

Sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or a rapidly rising weakness (as in Guillain-Barre syndrome) needs hospital care at once. Call 112 or 102.

Ayurvedic view

Ayurveda describes increase and spread of Vata in steps. This is interpretive.

Remember

The earlier the cause is treated, the better the chance of preserving nerve function.

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.