Treatment options for neuropathic pain
Treating pain from neuropathy
Currently there is no proven treatment to prevent
or cure neuropathic pain (neuropathy or nerve
pain). Instead, the primary goals of treatment
are to reduce the pain as much as possible, balance
the negative side effects of the treatment, and
help patients manage any unresolved pain.
It is thought that early identification and
treatment of intractable, chronic pain can help
in effectively treating the pain. Once neuropathic
pain is well established, however, it tends to
become more difficult to successfully manage
and more aggressive treatments may be required.
Back pain and neuropathy
Treatment of nerve pain related to the back
or spine has traditionally been through a combination
of medications and nerve blocks, and may include
implantable systems. In addition, physical therapy,
transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
and/or psychological therapy and occupational
therapy for coping with the pain may be effective.
Because of the complex nature of neuropathic
pain, a multi-disciplinary, integrated approach
to managing the pain is often useful. For example,
a comprehensive pain management and rehabilitation
program back pain patients with chronic, neuropathic
pain might include working with:
-
A spine specialist or pain management specialist,
such as a spine surgeon, anesthesiologist,
physiatrist, or neurologist, for medical
management of the pain
-
A physical therapist or occupational therapist
to assist with physical rehabilitation, exercise
and overall conditioning
-
A psychologist who specializes in pain management
to develop techniques for managing the pain
and alleviate associated symptoms of depression,
sleeplessness, etc.
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