What is neuropathic pain?
Neuropathic pain is characterised by pain arising from inflammation or damage to the peripheral nerves or nerves in the central nervous system (brain or spinal cord).
What causes neuropathic pain?
Neuropathic pain is caused by a problem with the function of one or more nerves which affects the way that pain messages are sent to the brain.
The following conditions may cause neuropathic pain and include:
- Diabetic neuropathy - a nerve disorder that develops in some people with diabetes
- Phantom limb pain following an amputation
- Multiple sclerosis
- Pain following chemotherapy
- HIV infection
- Atypical facial pain
What are the symptoms/effects of neuropathic pain?
People with neuropathic pain often experience burning, stabbing, shooting pain, electrical shock sensations, prickling, tingling, or‘pins and needles’and patches or larger areas of skin with heightened sensitivity.
Diagnosis of neuropathic pain
A diagnosis of neuropathic pain can be made by a physiotherapist or doctor who will assess your current symptoms and conduct a thorough physical examination.
Physiotherapy for neuropathic pain
At Physio.co.uk, our neurological physiotherapists will relieve your pain and increase your independence with daily tasks as well as teach you ways to manage your pain in the short and long term.
Physiotherapy treatment will be tailored to your condition but may include:
- Passive and active movement to relieve stiffness and lengthen tight tissue
- Aerobic exercise to release natural endorphins and improve energy levels
- Activities based on functional tasks and teaching you ways to complete these in an easier way.
- Mirror therapy
- Balance training
- Heat therapy
- Soft tissue massage to relieve tension
- Postural advice and adaptations