Treatments for Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain refers to pain associated with incorrect neural signals being sent through damaged pathways. It is a chronic pain issue that is often a result of tissue injury where the nerve fibers are damaged, injured or otherwise not functioning properly. The brain interprets signals from the nerves incorrectly and sends signals to pain centers causing pain at the center and surrounding location of the injury.

Pain Relievers

• The first method of treatment is to give those suffering from neuropathic pain a course of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These can be over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen. Stronger pain killers can be used if the pain does not subside with over-the-counter medicines. Prescription drugs containing morphine as well as anticonvulsant and antidepressant drugs work for some.

Diabetics Treatment

• Diabetics are often afflicted with neuropathic pain as a result of tissue damage from circulation problems associated with the disease. Pain can be alleviated using over-the-counter medications, with a doctor's approval.

Nerve Stimulation

• Serious conditions involving neuropathic pain rarely respond to pain relievers in the long run. Patients risk becoming addicted to morphine-based pain killers or have pain become increasingly painful and debilitating. For more serious conditions, electrical stimulation of the nerves can control pain symptoms. Pain specialists can implant a device in the area of pain to better control nerve impulses. This is the last level of pain management that can be done.