How Do You Know If Your Pain Is Neuropathic?

Neuropathic pain is a common condition treated by the specialists at San Antonio Pain Consultants. As experts in chronic pain management, our physicians understand that neuropathic pain arises from damage or dysfunction within the nervous system, setting it apart from other types of pain that stem from tissue injury or inflammation. This type of pain occurs when nerve fibers become injured, irritated, or impaired, leading to abnormal signaling between the nerves and the brain. Identifying and accurately diagnosing neuropathic pain is a cornerstone of our patient-centered approach and comprehensive pain management strategy.

Patients visiting San Antonio Pain Consultants often describe neuropathic pain as sensations of burning, tingling, shooting pain, electric shocks, or pins and needles. Unlike acute pain resulting from physical injuries, neuropathic pain may appear spontaneously without a clear cause, or it may persist long after the initial injury has healed. Additionally, neuropathic pain can heighten sensitivity, resulting in increased responses to mild stimuli (hyperalgesia) or pain triggered by typically non-painful sensations (allodynia).

The specialists employ thorough clinical assessments, carefully evaluating patients’ medical histories and performing detailed examinations to identify neuropathic pain. Our evaluations focus on understanding the type, severity, and distribution of pain, as well as detecting any associated sensory abnormalities or underlying medical conditions. Diagnostic assessments performed may include neurological testing to evaluate nerve function, reflexes, sensation, and muscle strength, as well as advanced diagnostic techniques such as nerve conduction studies electromyography (EMG) and imaging studies like MRI to pinpoint the underlying cause of the nerve injury or dysfunction.

At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we recognize the importance of identifying neuropathic pain’s unique characteristics to develop personalized and targeted treatment plans. Our multidisciplinary approach often includes medications designed specifically to modulate nerve signaling—such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, or topical agents—combined with non-pharmacological therapies including physical therapy, psychological counseling, and lifestyle modifications. Our ultimate goal is to help our patients achieve meaningful relief, enhanced quality of life, and sustained improvement in daily function.

At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we understand that neuropathy—damage or dysfunction affecting the peripheral nerves—can significantly impact your daily life. Recognizing early warning signs or red flags is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention. Common symptoms include sensations such as numbness, tingling, burning, or stabbing pain, typically beginning in the hands or feet. You may also notice increased sensitivity to touch or temperature changes, making routine activities uncomfortable or painful.

Our specialists at San Antonio Pain Consultants frequently encounter patients experiencing muscle weakness, particularly noticeable during fine motor tasks like buttoning clothing or using utensils. Balance issues, coordination difficulties, or frequent stumbling can also indicate neuropathy as peripheral nerve damage often affects the nerve pathways responsible for stability and coordinated movement.

Moreover, changes in skin color, texture, or temperature—such as affected areas becoming unusually pale, red, cool, or warm—could also signal neuropathy. Decreased or absent reflexes, particularly in the lower extremities, may further indicate nerve dysfunction.

Symptoms that rapidly worsen or affect multiple body areas require immediate medical attention, as they may reflect a more serious underlying condition. Sudden onset of severe pain, abrupt muscle weakness, or significant sensory loss warrants prompt evaluation by our experienced medical professionals.

At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we understand that ignoring neuropathy can lead to serious complications and worsening symptoms over time. Neuropathy, characterized by nerve damage and impaired nerve function, usually begins subtly, with mild tingling, numbness, or pain, typically affecting the hands or feet. Without timely intervention, neuropathy often worsens, causing intense pain, persistent numbness, and weakness that significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

One major risk of untreated neuropathy is reduced sensation, particularly in the feet. This loss of feeling can result in unnoticed injuries or wounds, increasing the risk of infections or ulcers. Compromised nerve function and poor circulation slow the healing process, potentially leading to severe infections, tissue damage, and even amputation if left untreated.

Neuropathy symptoms can also indicate underlying health conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or vitamin deficiencies. Ignoring neuropathy symptoms can delay the diagnosis and management of these underlying conditions, leading to further health complications. For instance, untreated diabetic neuropathy may result in severe foot ulcers, infections, and, in extreme cases, limb loss.

Additionally, neuropathy affects critical bodily functions, as nerves control many essential systems. Advanced neuropathy may cause imbalance, muscle weakness, and poor coordination, significantly raising the risk of falls and injuries. Autonomic neuropathy can further impact vital functions, resulting in digestive issues, urinary problems, abnormal heart rhythms, and difficulty regulating blood pressure.

Neuropathic pain is a common condition treated at San Antonio Pain Consultants, characterized by discomfort resulting from damage or dysfunction within the nervous system. Understanding the different types of neuropathic pain helps our specialists create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

Peripheral neuropathic pain results from damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, known as peripheral nerves. Our experienced providers frequently treat peripheral neuropathies associated with conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia), chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, and traumatic nerve injuries. Patients may experience uncomfortable sensations such as burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp, shooting pains in the affected areas.

Central Neuropathic Pain

Central neuropathic pain stems from damage or dysfunction within the central nervous system, namely the brain or spinal cord. Conditions commonly managed within our practice include pain associated with stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, and various neurological disorders. Patients may experience ongoing discomfort, hypersensitivity to touch, or abnormal sensations triggered by typically non-painful stimuli. At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we adopt a multidisciplinary approach to effectively manage central neuropathic pain.

Sympathetically Mediated Neuropathic Pain

Another type of neuropathic pain we specialize in treating is sympathetically mediated pain, which involves abnormal interactions between the sympathetic nervous system and injury sites. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a prime example of this condition. Patients experiencing CRPS may present with severe, persistent pain along with symptoms such as color and temperature changes in the affected limb, swelling, and heightened sensitivity. Our pain management experts utilize advanced diagnostic and therapeutic tools to identify and effectively address CRPS and similar conditions.

Mixed Neuropathic Pain

Mixed neuropathic pain combines elements of both peripheral and central mechanisms, frequently seen in chronic back pain or nerve compression disorders. In these conditions, both peripheral nerve injury and central sensitization contribute to the patient’s pain experience. At San Antonio Pain Consultants, we evaluate patients dealing with mixed neuropathic pain by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing customized, comprehensive treatment plans. Symptoms typically include persistent aching, sharp shooting pains, and increased sensitivity to stimuli.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of neuropathic pain, don’t wait to seek professional care. Dr. Darius Zagunis, M.D., and the San Antonio Pain Consultant team are here to help you identify the cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve your quality of life. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are located at 3903 Wiseman Blvd, Ste 117, San Antonio, TX 78251. We serve patients from San Antonio TX, Helotes TX, Alamo Ranch TX, Leon Valley TX, Shavano Park TX, Balcones Heights TX, Fair Oaks TX, Fair Oaks Ranch TX, Castroville TX, and surrounding areas.