Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Different Nerve Pain Remedies?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

Nerve pain remedies will depend on the cause of pain. Medication, homeopathic remedies, and surgery are all potential treatment options. Conditions which affect the function of nerves, arthritis, compression, and injury may all lead to nerve pain and are treated in different ways. Acupressure and acupuncture have also been used in the treatment of nerve pain and other symptoms.

Medication, whether over the counter or prescription, is one of the most common nerve pain remedies. The type will depend on the cause of pain and it could aim to treat the discomfort itself or the underlying cause. Arthritis medications are sometimes used. These normally include anti-inflammatories. Mild or strong pain medications may also be used either alone or in combination with additional drugs.

A medical professional examining a patient for femoral nerve damage.
A medical professional examining a patient for femoral nerve damage.

Sometimes nerve pain is caused by chronic conditions of the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis. These can cause pain, stiffness, numbness, tingling, and other sensations in the hands and feet and sometimes other areas of the body. Nerve pain remedies in these cases are often effective, and generally include medication and sometimes alternative treatments like acupressure and acupuncture. Although it has not be proven scientifically that these methods work, many patients have reported dramatic decreases in pain. Some conditions may heal or go into remission on their own.

Acupressure may be useful in the treatment of nerve pain and other symptoms.
Acupressure may be useful in the treatment of nerve pain and other symptoms.

Nerve pain remedies also include surgery in some severe cases. Lumbar stenosis is a condition where the spine becomes narrow and pinches the nerves in the spine. This is often treated with medication, but sometimes surgery is the best option. Surgical remedies can also be used for other forms of nerve compression. Generally whatever is compressing or pinching the nerves is removed. Sometimes additional surgeries are needed to stabilize the bones or muscles after portions are removed.

Acupuncture may be useful in treating nerve pain.
Acupuncture may be useful in treating nerve pain.

Pain caused by injuries may be corrected when the injury has healed, but sometimes permanent nerve damage can occur. When this happens there is often no long-term solution. Pain medications can often help manage discomfort, but not all patients can be helped entirely. This is generally true of only severe injuries. Occasionally portions of damaged nerves can be removed, but this only removes pain and does not cure numbness.

Patients who experience any long-term pain, numbness, or other discomfort should see a doctor as soon as possible. Although the explanation is generally benign, sometimes these can be caused by a serious medical condition. There are also cases where nerve pain remedies will not be effective and symptoms will eventually subside on their own. Benign fasciculation syndrome (BFS) is one example.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • A medical professional examining a patient for femoral nerve damage.
      By: JPC-PROD
      A medical professional examining a patient for femoral nerve damage.
    • Acupressure may be useful in the treatment of nerve pain and other symptoms.
      By: lunamarina
      Acupressure may be useful in the treatment of nerve pain and other symptoms.
    • Acupuncture may be useful in treating nerve pain.
      By: Alfred Wekelo
      Acupuncture may be useful in treating nerve pain.