Understanding Nerve Pain

Living with nerve pain can feel like navigating a maze without a map. But what if there was a clear starting point—something to demystify the pain and offer real, tangible solutions? Dr. Anderson of Advanced Pain Institute of Texas sat down with Dr. Justin Brown of Texas Spine Center Chiropractic to tackle this very subject. Their conversation sheds light on how nerve pain starts, why it’s not as terrifying as it seems, and the effective treatments that can bring genuine relief—like nerve blocks, among others. In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything from causes and symptoms to groundbreaking treatment options.

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Introduction to Nerve Pain

What is Nerve Pain?

Nerve pain, often referred to as neuropathic pain, is a unique and complex type of pain caused by damage or dysfunction in the nervous system. Unlike typical pain that results from injuries or inflammation, nerve pain originates from issues within the nerves themselves. It’s the kind of pain that feels like burning, shooting, stabbing, or electric shocks. And the worst part? It often lingers long after the initial injury heals—or may even appear without an obvious cause.

Your nerves are like highways, transmitting signals from different parts of your body to your brain and back. When these nerves are damaged, the signals can get scrambled. Imagine trying to have a phone call with someone while your line is full of static and echoes. That’s what your nervous system goes through during neuropathic pain.

Common conditions that lead to nerve pain include diabetic neuropathy, shingles, sciatica, spinal stenosis, and nerve compression from herniated discs. What makes nerve pain particularly challenging is that it doesn’t always respond to over-the-counter medications. It requires a nuanced understanding and a specialized approach.

Understanding this kind of pain is the first step to managing it. Once you know what’s going on inside your body, it becomes easier to work with your healthcare provider on a treatment plan that actually brings relief.

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Common Causes of Nerve Pain

Let’s break it down: what’s triggering this chaotic storm inside your nervous system? Nerve pain can have several root causes, each with its own treatment strategy. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Diabetes: One of the leading causes of nerve pain, especially in the feet and hands. Long-term high blood sugar damages nerves over time.

• Injuries: Trauma from car accidents, falls, or sports injuries can lead to nerve compression or severance.

• Infections: Conditions like shingles (herpes zoster) can cause intense nerve pain, even after the visible rash disappears.

• Spinal Conditions: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease can put pressure on nerves, especially in the back and neck.

• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis or lupus can attack the nerves, leading to chronic pain.

• Chemotherapy or Radiation: Some cancer treatments unfortunately have side effects that include nerve damage.

It’s not always just one issue either—sometimes, nerve pain results from a mix of factors. That’s why personalized diagnosis is critical. Your doctor isn’t just treating pain; they’re treating your body’s specific story.

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How Nerve Pain Affects Daily Life

Nerve pain isn’t just a physical issue—it’s emotional, psychological, and social. For many, the constant burning or stabbing pain can make even the simplest tasks, like buttoning a shirt or walking to the kitchen, feel like climbing a mountain. It can disrupt sleep, lower energy levels, and lead to irritability or depression.

Imagine waking up each day knowing that the pain will be there—no breaks, no timeouts. That kind of persistent discomfort can slowly wear away at your quality of life. Relationships suffer, productivity drops, and you begin avoiding activities you once loved. You might even fear going outside or participating in social gatherings because you’re unsure when the next flare-up will hit.

This ripple effect is why early and effective treatment matters so much. When you take steps to address nerve pain, you’re not just easing symptoms—you’re reclaiming control over your life.

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Starting Point for Treating Nerve Pain

Why It’s Important to Identify the Root Cause First

If you’re dealing with nerve pain, the first question shouldn’t be, “What pill should I take?” It should be, “Why is this happening?” That’s because treating the symptoms without understanding the root cause is like fixing a leaky roof by putting a bucket underneath—it works temporarily, but the problem isn’t solved.

Identifying the root cause of nerve pain helps determine the best course of action. For example, if your pain stems from diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels becomes part of the solution. If it’s due to a herniated disc, then spine-focused treatment might be necessary. Each cause has a different roadmap, and without a proper diagnosis, you’re just guessing.

Dr. Justin Brown emphasizes this in his conversations with patients: don’t jump straight to invasive procedures or medications. Begin with a comprehensive evaluation that includes your medical history, imaging (like MRIs or CT scans), and nerve function tests. The better your care team understands the “why,” the more effectively they can address the “how” of your treatment.

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The Role of Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

Your first consultation with a pain management or chiropractic specialist sets the tone for your entire healing journey. During this visit, your doctor isn’t just collecting data—they’re listening to your story. They want to know when the pain started, what it feels like, what makes it worse or better, and how it’s impacting your life.

Expect your provider to perform physical examinations, check reflexes, evaluate muscle strength, and perhaps order diagnostic tests like:

• Nerve Conduction Studies

• Electromyography (EMG)

• MRI or CT Scans

• Blood Tests

These tools help paint a complete picture of what’s going on beneath the surface. Once the source of your pain is identified, your provider can create a custom treatment plan. That plan might include physical therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and procedures like nerve blocks—all aimed at targeting the root cause, not just the symptoms.

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When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Here’s a good rule of thumb: if nerve pain is persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily life, it’s time to see a specialist. Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable before taking action. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Red flags that mean you should seek help ASAP include:

• Sudden or unexplained pain in the limbs

• Numbness or tingling that doesn’t go away

• Muscle weakness or balance issues

• Pain that disrupts your sleep

• Difficulty performing routine tasks

Delaying care can allow nerve damage to worsen, making treatment more complicated down the line. So if something feels off, trust your gut and schedule that consultation.

Expert Insights from Dr. Justin Brown

Who is Dr. Justin Brown?

Dr. Justin Brown is a respected chiropractor and one of the leading voices at the Texas Spine Center Chiropractic. Known for his compassionate approach and deep understanding of the nervous system, Dr. Brown has built a reputation for helping patients achieve lasting relief from chronic pain conditions—especially those related to nerve dysfunction.

With years of clinical experience under his belt, Dr. Brown has made it his mission to bridge the gap between chiropractic care and traditional pain management. His practice emphasizes holistic healing, spinal health, and non-invasive therapies that work in harmony with the body’s natural systems. He’s not just a chiropractor—he’s an educator, an advocate, and a partner in healing.

Patients praise Dr. Brown for his ability to explain complex medical terms in simple language, making them feel heard, empowered, and actively involved in their recovery. When he sat down with Dr. Anderson of the Advanced Pain Institute of Texas, their conversation highlighted the shared goal of providing multidisciplinary, patient-centered care.

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Collaboration Between Chiropractic and Pain Management

Chiropractic and pain management aren’t opposing forces—they’re complementary. This collaboration between Dr. Brown and Dr. Anderson is proof that when different healthcare disciplines come together, patients win. By integrating chiropractic care with advanced pain treatments like nerve blocks, spinal injections, and regenerative therapies, providers can create a comprehensive pain relief strategy.

Here’s how it works: chiropractic care focuses on improving spinal alignment, posture, and nerve communication. It can help reduce pressure on nerves, improve mobility, and enhance circulation. Pain management, on the other hand, uses medical interventions to address inflammation, nerve sensitivity, and chronic conditions. Together, they tackle both the root causes and symptoms.

This multidisciplinary model is particularly effective for patients with complex pain issues, like sciatica, herniated discs, or peripheral neuropathy. While a nerve block might offer immediate relief, ongoing chiropractic sessions can maintain spinal health and prevent recurrence. It’s a win-win for long-term pain control and overall wellness.

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Key Takeaways from Dr. Brown’s Discussion with Dr. Anderson

During their insightful conversation, Dr. Brown and Dr. Anderson broke down several myths surrounding nerve pain—and introduced powerful truths that can offer hope to those suffering.

Some of the most important takeaways include:

• Start with understanding: Effective pain relief begins with identifying the cause. Don’t mask symptoms—trace them back to the source.

• Early intervention is key: Waiting too long can result in nerve damage that’s harder to reverse. The earlier you act, the better your results.

• Treatments aren’t scary: Modern pain treatments, like nerve blocks, are safer and less invasive than people think.

• You don’t have to suffer in silence: Pain might be common, but it’s not normal. Help is available—and it works.

• Combine therapies for better results: Pairing chiropractic adjustments with medical pain management can enhance healing and accelerate relief.

The overall message? You’re not alone, and there’s a proven path forward. Nerve pain can be overwhelming, but with the right team and the right approach, it becomes manageable—and often, treatable.

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Understanding Nerve Blocks as a Treatment Option

What Are Nerve Blocks?

Think of a nerve block like flipping a circuit breaker in your body’s pain system. When a nerve is sending out pain signals non-stop, a nerve block can temporarily “turn off” that signal, giving you much-needed relief and your body a chance to reset.

A nerve block involves injecting a local anesthetic (and sometimes steroids) directly around or near the nerve that’s causing pain. This numbs the area, reduces inflammation, and interrupts pain signals from reaching the brain. It’s typically done under imaging guidance like ultrasound or fluoroscopy to ensure precision.

There are several kinds of nerve blocks, depending on where your pain is coming from:

• Epidural nerve blocks (used for lower back and leg pain)

• Facet joint blocks (for spine-related pain)

• Sympathetic nerve blocks (for chronic pain syndromes like CRPS)

• Peripheral nerve blocks (targeting pain in limbs or specific muscles)

One of the greatest benefits? These procedures are often done in under an hour, require minimal recovery time, and can provide relief that lasts days, weeks, or even months.

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Types of Nerve Blocks Used in Chronic Pain Treatment

Nerve blocks aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. There are different types tailored to specific conditions and areas of the body. Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used blocks:

1. Diagnostic Nerve Blocks: These help identify the exact source of your pain. If the pain disappears after the injection, it confirms the suspected nerve is the problem.

2. Therapeutic Nerve Blocks: These are used to actually treat the pain, often containing a mix of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medications.

3. Sympathetic Blocks: These target a group of nerves called the sympathetic chain, often used for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or vascular pain.

4. Spinal Nerve Root Blocks: These focus on individual nerve roots coming out of the spinal cord and are common in cases of herniated discs or sciatica.

5. Peripheral Nerve Blocks: Ideal for pain in specific limbs or areas like the shoulders, arms, or feet.

Each of these blocks has specific indications, durations, and expected outcomes. Your doctor will choose the one that best fits your pain pattern and diagnosis. The goal is always the same: interrupt the pain and help your body heal.

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Benefits and Risks of Nerve Blocks

Like any medical treatment, nerve blocks have their pros and cons. But when done by experienced professionals like those at Advanced Pain Institute of Texas, the benefits far outweigh the risks for most patients.

Benefits include:

• Rapid relief from severe or chronic pain

• Improved mobility and function

• Better participation in physical therapy

• Reduced reliance on oral pain medications

• Minimally invasive with little to no downtime

Potential risks include:

• Temporary numbness or weakness in the affected area

• Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site

• Rare allergic reactions to the medication

• In extremely rare cases, nerve damage or infection

The good news is that most patients tolerate nerve blocks very well. In fact, many report that it was a turning point in their pain journey—giving them enough relief to finally reclaim their life.

Advanced Pain Institute of Texas: Your Partner in Pain Relief

Multidisciplinary Approach to Pain Management

At Advanced Pain Institute of Texas, pain relief isn’t just about prescribing medication and sending patients on their way. It’s about building a personalized, comprehensive treatment strategy that addresses every layer of your pain. That’s why they’ve adopted a multidisciplinary approach—one that brings together various specialists, including pain management physicians, chiropractors like Dr. Justin Brown, physical therapists, and behavioral health experts.

This integrated care model recognizes that chronic pain affects the whole person—not just a single part of the body. A patient with sciatica, for instance, might benefit from a combination of spinal injections, targeted exercises, ergonomic changes, and mental health support to manage stress. By combining all these resources under one roof, Advanced Pain Institute offers something truly powerful: complete care.

The result? Better outcomes, faster relief, and happier patients. This collaboration also helps avoid unnecessary surgeries or long-term dependence on medications. With regular follow-ups and treatment plan adjustments, the team ensures you’re not just treated—but truly cared for.

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Treatments Offered Beyond Nerve Blocks

While nerve blocks are a standout option, they’re just one part of the pain relief puzzle at Advanced Pain Institute of Texas. The center offers a broad array of cutting-edge treatments tailored to each patient’s unique condition and goals.

Here are just a few of the options available:

• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This procedure uses heat generated by radio waves to disrupt pain signals from specific nerves.

• Spinal Cord Stimulation: Involves implanting a small device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord to relieve pain.

• Trigger Point Injections: Helpful for muscle-related pain, especially in conditions like fibromyalgia.

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Uses components from your own blood to promote healing in damaged tissues.

• Epidural Steroid Injections: Targets inflammation around the spine that’s causing nerve irritation.

• Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation: Customized programs to strengthen muscles, restore function, and prevent recurrence.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Addresses the mental and emotional toll of chronic pain and teaches pain-coping strategies.

Each treatment is selected based on a detailed diagnosis, and often, patients will receive a combination of therapies to maximize effectiveness. This approach recognizes that pain isn’t always caused by a single factor—and that healing requires multiple tools.

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Personalized Care Plans and Long-Term Relief

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work in pain management. What brings relief to one person might not work for another—and that’s why personalized care is at the heart of everything done at Advanced Pain Institute. Your journey starts with a full assessment that includes physical exams, diagnostics, lifestyle analysis, and a deep dive into your pain history.

From there, the team builds a step-by-step treatment plan focused on your needs, preferences, and goals. Do you want to return to work? Play with your kids again? Sleep through the night without pain waking you up? Those goals shape your care plan.

But it doesn’t stop there. Pain relief isn’t just about the now—it’s about the future, too. Long-term follow-up, re-evaluations, and evolving treatment plans ensure that once you get better, you stay better. Education is also key. Patients are taught what causes their pain, how to avoid flare-ups, and what steps to take to remain healthy and active.

It’s a complete ecosystem of support—designed to give you the power back over your body and your life.

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Conclusion

Nerve pain might sound intimidating, but with the right team, tools, and treatment plan, it doesn’t have to control your life. Experts like Dr. Justin Brown and Dr. Anderson are proving every day that relief is not just possible—it’s achievable. Whether it starts with a simple consultation or a nerve block procedure, the road to healing begins with one crucial step: taking action.

At the Advanced Pain Institute of Texas, you’re not just treated—you’re heard, supported, and guided toward long-term wellness. Through a combination of modern medicine, chiropractic insight, and compassionate care, you can reclaim your mobility, joy, and confidence.

You don’t have to navigate nerve pain alone. Take the first step today—and discover that the future can be pain-free.

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FAQs

1. How do I know if nerve pain is serious?
If your nerve pain is persistent, worsens over time, or affects your ability to function normally, it’s serious enough to warrant a medical evaluation. Sudden numbness, weakness, or loss of control are also red flags.

2. Are nerve blocks permanent solutions?
Nerve blocks are typically temporary but can provide relief for weeks to months. Some patients use them as part of a long-term management plan that includes therapy and lifestyle changes.

3. Can chiropractic care help with nerve pain?
Yes, especially if the pain is due to spinal misalignment or nerve compression. Chiropractors can relieve pressure on nerves through adjustments and help restore normal nerve function.

4. Is it possible to completely cure nerve pain?
In some cases, yes—especially if the underlying cause is treatable. In other cases, it can be managed effectively with a combination of treatments to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

5. What’s the first step to getting treatment?
Book a consultation with a pain specialist or chiropractor. They’ll assess your condition, run diagnostics if needed, and help design a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.