Nerve pain, otherwise known as neuropathic pain, can be a debilitating condition that’s difficult to treat. It often feels like a sharp pain or even like a burning sensation in the body and can significantly impact daily life for that reason alone.
Traditional treatments for neuropathic pain, like medication and physical therapy, may offer relief, but supportive therapies can also play a crucial role in managing nerve pain to the fullest extent.
Supportive therapies can also work to complement these treatments, providing additional pain relief for severe nerve pain, spinal cord stimulation, and enhancing overall well-being. For example, physical therapy and acupuncture incorporate a holistic approach while providing longer-lasting relief.
Let’s dive into three effective supportive therapies for nerve pain: chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture.
Chiropractic Care for Nerve Pain
Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders related to neuropathic pain, particularly those related to the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on techniques to adjust the spine and other joints. The goal is to improve alignment, reduce pain, and improve overall function.
Nerve pain therapy through chiropractic care can help in several ways. For instance, misalignments in the spine can put pressure on nerves, leading to pain. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractors can relieve nerve pressure and reduce pain signals. Regular adjustments can also improve blood flow and nerve function.
Benefits of Chiropractic Care
There are several ways you can benefit from chiropractic care. For one, aligning the spine can help to decrease nerve pressure, reducing pain and improving mobility. For another, better spinal alignment can lead to better overall nerve function.
Chiropractic care may also lead to reduced dependence on medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In fact, chiropractic may function for some as a substitute for stronger pain medications. This treatment provides a holistic style treatment plan without the risks surgery and certain drugs may entail.
What to Expect During a Chiropractic Session
During your first visit, the chiropractor will assess your condition and review your medical history. They may perform physical exams and, if necessary, imaging tests or X-rays. Treatment typically involves spinal adjustments. These may also be accompanied by exercises or lifestyle advice. Each session aims to address the root causes of nerve pain and bring about lasting recovery.
The chiropractor might then assess your posture and gait to identify any imbalances. They may use their hands to examine your spine and other areas for misalignments or problem spots.
They may test how well you can move certain joints to assess flexibility and mobility. The actual adjustment would then involve the chiropractor applying controlled force to specific joints. There are various techniques for an adjustment, such as spinal manipulation, mobilization, or gentle adjustments, depending on your condition and the chiropractor’s approach.
Massage Therapy for Nerve Pain
Massage therapy involves manipulating muscles and soft tissues to relieve strain, tension, and discomfort. It’s known for its relaxing effects and can be extremely beneficial for those who suffer from nerve pain. Massage can help reduce muscle tightness and soreness as well by relaxing muscles that compress nerves.
In addition to its immediate relief, massage therapy can promote long-term benefits by improving circulation and flexibility. Enhanced blood flow helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to tissues, which aids in reducing inflammation. Regular massage sessions can also contribute to better posture and alignment by addressing muscle imbalances and promoting overall body wellness.
For individuals dealing with chronic conditions or recovering from injuries, incorporating massage into a comprehensive treatment plan can support a more balanced and pain management lifestyle.
Types of Massage for Nerve Pain
There are three massages to be familiar with for nerve pain and they include but are not limited to:
- Swedish Massage: This massage is gentle and relaxing. It helps in relieving tension and improving circulation.
- Deep Tissue Massage: This one targets deeper muscle layers, addressing chronic muscle tension and providing deeper relief.
- Trigger Point Therapy: This third type focuses on specific points of pain and tension, helping to release tight knots and reduce nerve pressure.
Benefits of Massage Therapy
It’s commonly known that massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension, but what you might not know is that it also contributes to a healthier complexion by promoting lymphatic drainage and enhancing the delivery of nutrients to the body.
Some studies also suggest that regular massage therapy may improve cognitive function, including better concentration and memory, likely due to reduced stress and improved relaxation.
What to Expect During a Massage Session
A typical massage session begins with a discussion of your symptoms, medical history, and pain levels. The therapist will use various techniques to target areas of tension and discomfort. Sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes and can be tailored to your specific needs and comfort.
Acupuncture for Nerve Pain
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese therapy that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. These points, known as acupuncture points, are believed to influence the flow of energy or “qi” through the body. The goal is to restore balance in the body and promote the healing of any stuck or fixed energy.
Nerve pain acupuncture can be effective in managing nerve pain by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes. The needles help to promote blood flow and reduce inflammation. Acupuncture can also help in regulating the nervous system, which may contribute to pain relief.
Benefits of Acupuncture for Nerve Pain
Acupuncture has consistently given people with chronic pain results that speak volumes. It’s proven to reduce the intensity of nerve pain and also decrease inflammation around the affected nerves. In doing this, it also helps to stimulate nerve pathways, potentially enhancing overall nerve health and stability.
A lesser-known benefit of acupuncture is that it may aid in weight management by regulating the metabolism and reducing cravings by balancing the hormones responsible for them. It’s also found to potentially lead to increased sleep quality and fertility by improving blood flow to reproductive organs.
Acupuncture also improves respiratory function and may offer relief for those with allergies and asthma as well as those with chronic pain.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
During an acupuncture session, the practitioner will insert fine needles into specific points on your body. You may feel a slight tingling or dull sensation as the needles are inserted. Sessions typically last between 30 to 60 minutes and are usually painless. At most, it will feel like a slight pinch.
Integrating Supportive Therapies into Your Treatment Plan
Supportive therapies can be used alongside traditional treatments to enhance overall results.
For example, chiropractic care can address issues in the spinal cord contributing to nerve pain or nerve injury, while massage can reduce muscle tension and relieve nerve pain. Acupuncture can further support nerve health and reduce pain. You would also benefit from combining traditional therapy with several coinciding supportive therapies.
Working with Healthcare Professionals
Before starting any new therapy, consult with your healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best combination of therapies based on your specific condition and needs. Your provider can also guide you in finding qualified practitioners in your area for chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture.
Monitoring Your Progress
Keep track of your symptoms and how they change with each new therapy that’s implemented into your treatment plan. Regularly review your progress with your healthcare provider to adjust your treatment plan as the need arises.
Steps to Pain Relief
Pain management can be challenging, but supportive therapies like chiropractic care, massage, and acupuncture offer valuable relief. Each therapy provides unique benefits that can complement traditional treatments.
By incorporating these therapies into your treatment plan, you can enhance your overall well-being and improve your quality of life. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to find the right balance and approach for you.
The Illinois Back Institute has performed over 500,000 treatments for those with nerve pain, with results that speak for themselves.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain and want to try a treatment that’s backed by insurance, schedule a free consultation with us at 708-419-6733 or send us an email at cs@illinoisbackpain.com.
