Neuropathic pain is characterized by the sensation of shooting or burning pain. Neuropathic Pain may go away by itself, but it is usually chronic. Neuropathic pain is caused due to the problems affecting the somatosensory nervous system. The somatosensory nervous system is a part of the sensory nervous system. It is responsible for eliciting specific responses to changes at the surface or inside the body—people suffering from this disease experience abnormal sensations resembling shocking or stabbing from non-painful stimuli.

Many reasons can lead to Neuropathic pain. Patients who’ve undergone surgery, chemotherapy, or amputations, people with alcohol addiction, diabetics are all at a higher risk of developing the disease. Patients with other conditions such as HIV, multiple myeloma, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, syphilis, or thyroid problems are also more likely to develop the syndrome. People suffering from the disease may experience shooting or burning pain along with the sensation of tingling and numbness.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms described above, please consult a doctor. It is often challenging to diagnose neuropathic pain. A doctor may inquire about your medical history and ask you to detail the sensation of pain you’re experiencing. The doctor may conduct blood and nerve tests to investigate your condition better.

Once diagnosed, treatment of the pain can commence. Doctors may prescribe antidepressants or anticonvulsant drugs as the first line of medication. Studies suggest that NAIDS (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help reduce the pain a patient experiences. In some instances where the condition has worsened, electric stimulation may be performed. Treatments such as physical therapy, relaxation therapy or massage therapy may also help reduce the pain. Neuropathic pain is a difficult problem to treat as not all patients respond to medication and treatment well. In some cases, it can lead to further worsening of the situation as the nerve damage gets more severe. In such cases, neuropathic pain can be excruciating, leading to serious disability. Here, a combination of therapy and medication may be the best course of action.