Discomfort, soreness and aches can be attributed to arthritis, but nerve pain “can feel like a deep ache, burning pain, shooting pain [that] sometimes feels sharp”. Doctor Kufakwaro revealed one of the telling signs of nerve pain: “Occasionally the skin can fell very sensitive to the extent that the affected individual struggles to wear heavy clothes.” Understanding whether the pain you’re in is caused by joint issues or nerve issues is key to better treatments.
Take nerve pain, for instance, which could in actual fact be an indication of an underlying health condition.
Examples include: diabetes, vitamin deficiency, gout, or sarcoidosis.
“[Nerve pain] can also occur post-surgery or can be a side effect of certain medications,” added Doctor Kufakwaro.
Any part of the body can be affected by nerve pain, but it can be (perhap, partially be) successfully treated with a TENS machine.
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Medication could include “simple analgesics, antidepressants and anti-epileptics that calm down nerves”.
Home remedies include following an anti-inflammatory, balanced diet.
Foods rich in omega-3 are welcomed, as is lifestyle habits such as drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol or nicotine.
Some of the above techniques can be useful for treating joint pain.
However, joint pain is also responsive stretching before gentle exercises, warm baths, and getting adequate rest.
Is it arthritis?
The symptoms of arthritis include:
- Joint pain, tenderness and stiffness
- Inflammation in and around the joints
- Restricted movement of the joints
- Warm red skin over the affected joint
- Weakness and muscle wasting.
If you are experiencing ongoing pain, and you’re not sure if it’s arthritis or nerve damage, do book a consultation with your doctor.
Dr Norman Kufakwaro is a consultant in pain medicine at London Bridge Hospital (part of HCA UK).
