The Nerves

Many types of injury to peripheral nerves or the central nervous system may result in chronic pain called neuropathic pain. Traumatic injuries, including surgery, or a case of shingles can cause neuropathic pain which begins suddenly and persists. Chronic diseases like diabetes can cause progressive neuropathic pain with a more insidious onset. Physical therapy may be appropriate for certain types of neuropathic pain, but typically anticonvulsants, certain types of antidepressants, and topical medications are used to control symptoms. Certain neuropathies may benefit from therapeutic nerve blocks or even implantable devices. In the case of neuropathy due to chronic disease, control of the underlying disease is crucial to help prevent worsening of symptoms.