Neuropathy, neuritis, neuralgia – diagnosis and therapy

How is the diagnosis made?

Due to the typical symptoms, the affected nerve is usually quickly identified. Research into the cause, on the other hand, is often more time-consuming and only sometimes leads to success. Depending on the results of the physical examination and the suspected trigger, further tests such as blood tests, computer or magnetic resonance imaging, examinations of the function of muscles and nerves, electrophysiological diagnostics or X-ray examinations of the vessels follow.

What therapy is there?

The treatment methods are as numerous as the triggers – therefore, only a rough overview can be given here. Where possible, the cause is addressed, and an attempt is made to alleviate the symptoms. In some cases, a surgical intervention must also be considered.

Medicines are primarily used to combat acute or chronic pain – in addition to the usual weak to strong painkillers, there are also antidepressants, antiepileptics, radical scavengers (alpha-lipoic acid) and local anaesthetics. Electricity therapy ( TENS = transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation ) is also used successfully depending on the nerve pain.

In addition, physiotherapeutic measures, relaxation and psychotherapeutic methods are used.

Alternative treatment methods

Good results can often be achieved with the help of alternative methods, especially in the case of chronic nerve pain. Typically, the following methods are used: