Neuropathic Pain
Neuropathic Pain
Injury to the nervous system may result in nerve pain or even pain in the spinal cord and brain, which are known as the central nervous system.
When an injury is incurred, the body’s pain reflexes are activated in the form of acute pain in order to protect us from additional harm. The nerves are in charge of delivering impulses or signals to the rest of the body. Damaged nerves may change the nerve function at the site of damage and result in wrong signals being sent to pain centres in the central nervous system. Neuropathic pain is the medical term for the pain that results from nerve injury.
Some common causes of nerve pain can include nerve damage after physical accidents, surgery, viral infections, chronic illnesses, alcoholism and more. Neuropathic pain is often described as a burning, tingling sensations or electric shock-like pain. The affected area of the body may also become painfully sensitive to touch. Experiencing pins and needles, numbness and difficulty sensing temperatures are also common symptoms of neuropathic pain. In severe cases, wearing heavy or thick clothing might be difficult as even the slightest pressure can aggravate the discomfort.
Neuropathic Pain Management
Contrary to popular belief, the intake of painkillers such as paracetamol only provide temporary or minimal relief for nerve pain. An over reliance on such medications would also lead to needing an increase in dosage. However, with opioid painkillers, this increase in dosage come with even more reduced effectiveness. Nerve physiotherapy could also be helpful in providing pain relief for the patient as it helps mobilise the irritated nerves.
Neuropathic pain is generally diagnosed by the individual’s observable symptoms via a thorough clinical assessment.
The fundamental aims of neuropathic pain management are to reduce the pain as much as possible while minimising the medication's undesirable side effects. Individuals suffering from chronic neuropathic pain may be referred to a pain clinic for evaluation, treatment, and counselling on how to cope with the condition.
Treatment at Affinity Pain Clinic
If you have been experiencing any symptoms of neuropathic pain, it would be best to seek professional help as soon as possible. Affinity Pain Clinic is a medical clinic in Singapore that is led by certified anaesthesiologist and pain management physician Dr. Daniel Phang. Proficient in managing pain through the use of image-guided intervention, we are able to provide accurate and cost effective neuropathic pain treatment in Singapore.
Our experienced and dedicated team believes that all of our patients deserve the best care. We are committed to helping you overcome your nerve pain with reduced procedural time.
For further enquiries or to make an appointment, please feel free to drop us a call at +65 6429 1335.