Nerve pain relief: what really helps

Nerve pain (neuropathic pain) can feel like burning, stabbing, pins-and-needles, or electric shocks. It comes from damaged or irritated nerves, not from injured muscles or joints. That means common painkillers often don’t work well. If you’re tired of trial and error, here are straightforward, practical options you can try or discuss with your doctor.

Medicines that often work

Doctors usually reach for specific nerve pain drugs first. Two common choices are gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica). They calm overactive nerves and often reduce burning and shooting pain. We have a detailed article comparing these two—check “Pregabalin vs Gabapentin” for side effects, dosing, and when one might be better than the other.

Other options include certain antidepressants (amitriptyline, duloxetine) and topical drugs like lidocaine patches. For short-term flare-ups, doctors may prescribe an NSAID like ketorolac, but that helps more with inflammatory pain than classic neuropathy.

Always start low and go slow with dosing. Side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, or dry mouth are common. Talk to your prescriber if you drive, operate machinery, or take other drugs.

Non-drug treatments that help

Topical creams (capsaicin, lidocaine) can work well for localized nerve pain and have fewer side effects than pills. TENS units (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) may reduce pain for some people—rent one or try it under physiotherapy guidance before buying.

Physical therapy helps when tight muscles or poor posture aggravate nerve pain. A therapist can teach gentle nerve-gliding exercises that reduce tension without making symptoms worse.

For stubborn cases, procedures like nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation exist. Those are specialist options—ask a pain clinic whether they suit you.

Small daily choices matter. Keep blood sugar under control if you have diabetes, move gently but regularly to avoid stiffness, and aim for good sleep. Stress makes nerve pain feel worse, so simple breathing exercises or short walks can lower pain intensity.

Be careful buying meds online. Some sites sell real drugs; others don’t. Our site has articles on safe online purchase practices and pharmacy alternatives. If you try an online pharmacy, pick one that needs a prescription and shows clear contact info and licensing.

When to see a doctor? Book an appointment if your pain started suddenly, follows an injury, gets worse fast, comes with weakness or numbness, or stops you from sleeping and working. Early assessment can prevent permanent nerve damage.

If you want step-by-step help, read our comparison of gabapentin and pregabalin and the guides on topical treatments and safe online pharmacies. Nerve pain is tough, but the right mix of medication, therapy, and self-care can bring real relief.