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Neuralgia (nerve pain, “pinched nerve”)

Following an injury, or simply in response to chronic inflammation that may be causing tissue to swell, nerve pain may be present. The characteristic of nerve pain is a dull, deep and often intense sensation that radiates from a site of greater pain, usually following a limb. Neuralgia can lead to weakness in the affected area and can be extremely debilitating. It can accompany infections of Herpes zoster (Shingles), or be due to a mechanical issue, in which latter case chiropractic and massage therapy are very helpful.

Treatment Goal(s):
· Reduce nerve inflammation, tonify nervous system.

Primary Treatment:
· Apply a combination of equal parts oil and tincture of Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort) along the entire area of pain.
· Consider internal use of Zanthoxylum americanum (Prickly Ash) if there is also deficient circulation.

Supportive Treatment:
· Assess the constitution for anti-inflammatory needs. Administer teas of Avena sativa (Oats).
· Warm compresses of Zingiber officinale (Ginger) to the area where the pain originates can be helpful in many, but not all, cases. Discontinue if pain is aggravated.

Differential diagnoses, cautions, and other considerations:
· If the pain continues unabated, consider the possibility that other surrounding tissues may be deeply involved in a pattern of chronic inflammation (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome). Evaluation by a qualified care provider can be helpful.
· If there is spasming in the musculature around the affected area, external applications of Lobelia inflata and Scutellaria lateriflora (Scullcap) can be helpful.