NERVE PAIN LOS ANGELES

Nerve pain can affect different parts of the body:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Typically affects the hands and feet, causing numbness, tingling, and pain.
• Trigeminal Neuralgia: Causes intense facial pain, often triggered by touch or eating.
• Occipital Neuralgia: Leads to sharp, stabbing pain at the base of the skull and back of the head.
• Postherpetic Neuralgia: Localized pain that persists following a shingles outbreak

Nerve pain can stem from various conditions and factors that damage or disrupt the normal functioning of the nerves. This type of pain can be triggered by:  

• Injuries: Trauma from accidents or surgeries can damage nerves directly, leading to chronic pain. 
• Diseases: Conditions like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and shingles can cause nerve damage. Diabetes, for instance, can lead to diabetic neuropathy, another common type of nerve pain. 
• Infections: Viral infections such as shingles (caused by the varicella-zoster virus) can inflame nerves, resulting in severe pain. 
• Compression or Pressure: Herniated discs or bone spurs can compress nerves, leading to pain and discomfort. 
• Chemotherapy: Certain chemotherapy drugs can cause nerve damage, resulting in peripheral neuropathy. 
• Autoimmune Disorders: Diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can cause the immune system to attack the body's own nerves. 

Understanding the underlying cause of nerve pain is crucial for effective treatment. A comprehensive evaluation by the professionals at Spine & Pain Institute LA can help determine the specific cause and guide the appropriate management plan.

Diagnosing nerve pain involves a thorough medical history review, physical and neurological exams to assess nerve function, and imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to identify structural issues. Electrodiagnostic tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS), measure electrical activity in nerves and muscles. Blood tests may also be conducted to detect underlying conditions like diabetes or infections. This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment planning.

At Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating nerve pain:

At Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating nerve pain:

1. Thorough Evaluation: We'll review your medical history, discuss your symptoms in detail, and perform a physical examination.
2. Diagnostic Testing: This may include nerve conduction studies or imaging scans to identify the underlying cause.
3. Personalized Treatment Plan: We tailor treatment to your specific needs, which may include:

• Medications: Prescription drugs can help manage nerve pain and address underlying conditions.
• Interventional Procedures:
  • Nerve Blocks
  • Spinal Cord Stimulation
  • Radiofrequency Ablation 
• Physical Therapy: Exercise and rehabilitation can improve nerve function and reduce pain.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, weight management, and avoiding smoking can contribute to overall nerve health.

Nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, presents with a variety of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Common symptoms include:  

Sharp, Shooting Pain: Often described as a burning or stabbing sensation, this pain can be sudden and intense. 

Tingling or Numbness: A prickling sensation or loss of feeling in the affected area is common.

Increased Sensitivity: Even light touch or pressure can cause significant pain, a condition known as allodynia. 

Weakness or Muscle Atrophy: Nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness and, over time, muscle wasting. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for seeking appropriate medical care and management.