Pain usually serves to protect us from harm, such as when we instinctively pull our hand away from a hot surface to avoid burns. However, nerve pain, or neuropathic pain, has no protective function. It arises due to damage within the nervous system, which can occur in the brain, spinal cord, or nerve pathways.
Nerve pain may appear suddenly without an obvious cause, or it could develop as a result of factors such as a viral infection (like shingles), a surgical procedure, or a trapped nerve following an accident. It is also common in people with diabetes, due to nerve damage associated with the condition. The intensity and nature of nerve pain can vary: some may experience intermittent episodes, while others endure continuous discomfort. It can manifest as severe, burning, shooting, or stinging sensations. In addition to causing pain, nerve damage can sometimes affect blood flow in certain parts of the body.