The Impact of Nerve Pain

Please watch the following video to learn more about the impact of nerve pain.

Chronic nerve pain caused by damage to peripheral nerve fibers is one of the most debilitating for the patient and frustrating to treat for the health care professional.

Early diagnosis and treatment of peripheral neuropathy is important because peripheral nerves have a limited capacity to regenerate, and treatment may only stop the progression, not reverse damage that is already present.

Some people have pain but feel that they must “push through it.” Or they think that the pain is a sign of old age. It is estimated that 50% of the individuals with diabetes for example have peripheral nerve pain. Nerve pain is a real medical condition.

The impact is significant and if not appropriately treated, there can be a number of associated problems that lead to a downward cycle for the patient including depression, sleeplessness, feelings of fear and anxiety, limited social interaction and inability to perform normal daily activities or work.

Neuropathy also has some serious risks. If your foot becomes numb, you are at risk for having an injury that you may not feel. If the injury is not treated, this can lead to an infection. In extreme cases, patients may need to have surgery to amputate a foot or leg.

If you experience the symptoms of nerve pain, consult your health care practitioner.