Can Neuropathy Cause Pain in Your Back?

Neuropathy can cause back pain by damaging the nerves that supply the muscles, skin, and joints in the back. Here are some common causes of neuropathy that can lead to back pain:

• Diabetes: High blood sugar can destroy the nerves, leading to neuropathy, numbness, tingling, and pain in the back.
• Vitamin deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins we need like B12, B6, and E can cause nerve damage and lead to back pain.
• Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol consumption can damage the nerves and lead to neuropathy.
• Herniated discs: A herniated disc can squish or irritate the nerves, causing back pain and neuropathy.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal will add some pressure on the nerves, leading to back pain and neuropathy.
• Osteoarthritis: Over time the joints in the spine can cause nerve compression and lead to back pain and neuropathy.
• Inflammatory conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis can cause nerve damage and lead to back pain and neuropathy.
• Trauma: Traumatic injuries, such as a fall or car accident, can cause nerve damage and lead to back pain and neuropathy.
• Autoimmune disorders: Conditions such as Guillain-Barre syndrome, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), and vasculitis can cause nerve damage and lead to back pain and neuropathy.
• Chemotherapy: Certain chemotherapy medications can cause nerve damage and lead to neuropathy.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as certain antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and anti-inflammatory medications, can cause nerve damage and lead to neuropathy.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to the spine can cause nerve damage and lead to neuropathy.

It’s imperative to meet with a healthcare professional for the correct diagnosis and treatment if you’re experiencing back pain and suspect it may be related to neuropathy.

It can be challenging to distinguish between regular back pain and back pain caused by neuropathy, as both can present with similar symptoms. There are a few differences that can help healthcare professionals and individuals alike make a more accurate diagnosis.
When it comes to back pain caused by neuropathy, the symptoms can be quite distinct. For one, the pain can be quite severe and debilitating, often described as shooting or burning sensations that radiate from the back down to the legs, buttocks, or feet. In addition, numbness or tingling sensations can be present in the affected areas, along with paresthesia, which is a sensation of abnormal sensations such as itching, pins and needles, or crawling sensations.

Another key characteristic of neuropathic back pain is its tendency to worsen at night or during periods of rest. This is because the affected nerves can become more sensitive and reactive when they are not being actively used or stimulated.

When it comes to treating neuropathy and back pain, it’s often necessary to address both conditions simultaneously. Manual therapy, such as chiropractic care or osteopathic manipulation, can help relieve nerve pressure and reduce muscle tension.

Medications, like anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and anti-inflammatory drugs, can be used to manage chronic pain and reduce inflammation. Lifestyle changes, such as improving posture, getting regular exercise, and keeping a good weight, can also play a critical role in handling both conditions.

While some self-care measures can help alleviate neuropathy-related back pain, it’s generally recommended to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here are a few things you can try on your own:

• Apply heat or cold treatments to the sore area
• Practice gentle stretches and exercises to improve posture and reduce muscle tension
• Take regular breaks to rest and stretch if you have a job that includes either sitting or standing for long periods
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your back
• Try relaxation exercises like yoga or deep breathing to handle stress and anxiety

However, if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain
• Numbness or tingling in your legs
• Weakness or fatigue in your muscles
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• Fever or chills
• Recent trauma or injury

Always call your doctor if you need some further evaluations. They will help find the underlying reasons behind your pain, recommend appropriate medications, and guide lifestyle changes to manage your symptoms.

At Modern Pain Management, our priority is your comfort and well-being. With our team of dedicated professionals, we are here to support you on your journey to a pain-free life. Contact us today or schedule your consultation online and take the first step towards reclaiming control over your health and vitality. We have convenient locations to serve you in Houston TX and Sugar Land TX. Let us help you rediscover a life without limitations. We serve patients from Houston TX, Sugar Land TX, Pearland TX, Jersey Village TX, Missouri City TX, Stafford TX, and Richmond TX.