It’s astounding that over 20 million Americans suffer from neuropathic pain. If you’ve been diagnosed with neuropathic pain, you may be wondering what your treatment options are. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating this condition, there are a variety of medicines that may help.
Keep reading to learn more about the different types of treatment and medicine for neuropathic pain.
What Is Neuropathic Pain?
Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that is caused by damage to the nervous system. The damage can be due to an injury, a disease, or even a side effect of a medication. There are several different types of medicines that treat neuropathic pain. This blog will explore some of the options that are available.
What Causes Neuropathic Pain?
There are many different causes of neuropathic pain. The most common cause is damage to the nervous system. This can be due to an injury, a disease, or even a side effect of a medication. Other less common causes include diabetes, shingles, and surgery.
The Link Between Neuropathic Pain and Other Illnesses
There is a strong link between neuropathic pain and other illnesses. One study found that people with neuropathic pain are more likely to have depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. This is likely due to the fact that chronic pain can be debilitating. It can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
Medicine for Neuropathic Pain
There are several different types of medicines that can treat neuropathic pain. The most common type of medicine is analgesics. These are drugs that relieve pain.
Other types of medicines include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and local anesthetics. Each type of medicine works differently and has different side effects.
Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants were created to treat seizures, but they can also be used to relieve neuropathic pain. Anticonvulsants work by stabilizing electrical activity in the brain. This help to reduce the intensity of neuropathic pain.
They can also help to improve mood and sleep quality, both of which are affected by chronic pain. While anticonvulsants are not a cure for neuropathic pain, they provide significant relief for many people.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants treat depression, but they are also effective in treating neuropathic pain. Antidepressants work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This helps to relieve pain. Antidepressants are effective in treating neuropathic pain and are often used as a first-line treatment.
Side effects can include nausea, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. These side effects are typically mild and go away after a few weeks of treatment. Antidepressants are an effective treatment for neuropathic pain and can help people manage their symptoms and live normal life.
Painkillers
New research suggests that painkillers may be more effective than previously thought. A recent study found that common painkillers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are actually quite effective in treating neuropathic pain.
In fact, the study found that these drugs are just as effective as some of the most prescribed medications for neuropathic pain. This is exciting news for those who suffer from this debilitating condition, as it may provide relief that was previously unattainable.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are applied to the skin to relieve localized pain. Examples of topical treatments include creams, gels, and patches. Topical treatments may contain medications such as lidocaine or capsaicin.
Tiger Balm is a popular over-the-counter topical treatment that contains menthol and camphor. You should never apply topical treatments over open wounds or cuts. If you have diabetes or poor circulation, you should talk with your doctor before using any topical treatments as they could cause further damage.
Other Treatment Options for Nerve Pain
There are also several other treatment options that can treat neuropathic pain. These options include acupuncture, massage, and physical therapy.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical technique that uses thin needles inserted into pressure points on the skin. This helps to regulate the flow of qi, or life energy, in the body according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions. Recent studies show that it can be an effective treatment for neuropathic pain. Acupuncture provides relief for neuropathic pain. It works by stimulating the release of chemicals that help to block pain signals from reaching the brain.
Acupuncture may also help to reduce inflammation. This promotes healing in the damaged nerves. As a result, acupuncture can be an effective treatment for neuropathic pain.
Massage
Massage is a technique that involves the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues. Massage is effective in treating neuropathic pain. Massage therapy is thought to work by reducing inflammation and increasing circulation.
This helps to reduce pain and promote healing. Massage therapy is a safe and effective treatment for neuropathic pain. It is important to find a qualified therapist who has experience treating this type of pain.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a treatment that uses exercises and other techniques to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and help with the pain. Physical therapy can help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and increase the range of motion.
It can also help to improve the function of the nervous system. Physical therapy is an effective treatment for neuropathic pain, and it can help to improve the quality of life for people who suffer from this condition.
Opioid Medication for Nerve Pain
Opioid medications can be effective in treating neuropathic pain. They can also be addictive and have dangerous side effects. Therefore, only use them as a last resort.
Opioids work by binding to the body’s natural pain-relieving receptors. This can help to reduce the sensation of pain. Opioids can also cause drowsiness, constipation, and nausea. In addition, they can slow down breathing and heart rate.
These side effects can be dangerous, particularly when opioids are used in high doses or for long periods of time. When used carefully, opioids can help to relieve the pain of neuropathy.
Cannabis for Nerve Pain
Cannabis is a plant that contains chemicals that can treat various medical conditions. It is consumed in various forms, including smoking, vaporizing, and eating. The active ingredient in cannabis, THC, binds to receptors in the brain that are responsible for pain perception.
THC also helps to increase the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters involved in pain regulation. As a result, cannabis can help to reduce neuropathic pain. In addition, cannabis treats other medical conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
Try Alternative Medicine to Relieve Pain
There are many different options available for treating neuropathic pain. The best course of treatment will vary depending on the individual. Some people may find relief with over-the-counter medications, while others may require prescription medications.
Alternative treatment options, such as acupuncture and massage, can also be effective. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment and medicine for neuropathic pain for your needs. Contact us now to learn about naturopathic medicine and how it may help your pain.
