Living with Chronic Neurological Pain? Here’s What You Can Do

Chronic neurological pain isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, mental, and deeply personal. It can rob you of your sleep, your independence, and even your joy. Whether it’s constant burning, sharp shooting pain, or mysterious numbness, nerve pain is unlike any other.

In Bangladesh, thousands suffer silently due to a lack of awareness or fear of complex treatments. But there’s good news: modern neurological pain treatment in Dhaka is more advanced and accessible than ever before—especially under the expert care of Professor Dr. Md. Shafiul Alam.

Let’s explore what causes chronic nerve pain, how to manage it, and the safe, effective solutions now available—without jumping straight to surgery.

What Causes Chronic Neurological Pain?

Neurological pain occurs when the nerves or brain’s pain pathways are damaged or disrupted. Common causes include:

Spinal disc problems – such as PLID, spinal stenosis, or nerve root compression
Trauma or surgery – nerve injury after accidents or operations
Stroke – central post-stroke pain due to brain signal interference
Diabetes – diabetic neuropathy causing burning or numbness in the limbs
Tumors or inflammation – pressing on nerve structures
Autoimmune diseases – like multiple sclerosis

Unlike muscle pain, nerve pain often persists for months or years and can worsen without the right intervention.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Neurological pain feels very different from other types of pain. Warning signs include:

Burning, stabbing, or electric shock-like pain
Tingling or numbness in hands, feet, or face
Muscle weakness or heaviness in limbs
Oversensitivity to touch, even light contact
Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep
Loss of balance or coordination

If these symptoms are persistent or spreading, it’s time to see a neurosurgeon in Dhaka for a proper evaluation.

Diagnosis – How a Neurosurgeon Identifies the Source

Professor Dr. Md. Shafiul Alam begins with a comprehensive diagnostic process, which includes:

Detailed patient history – identifying triggers, timelines, and pain patterns
Neurological examination – reflexes, strength, sensation, coordination
Imaging – MRI or CT scans to detect disc herniation, tumors, or spinal issues
Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCV) – to assess nerve function

This multi-angle approach ensures accurate diagnosis and treatment tailored to the patient—not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Non-Surgical Nerve Pain Solutions

Surgery is not always the answer. In fact, most patients improve significantly with conservative, non-invasive treatments such as:

Medication Therapy
- Nerve-stabilizing agents (e.g., pregabalin, gabapentin)
- Antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline for nerve pain control)
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
- Topical treatments or pain-relief patches
Physical & Neuromuscular Therapy
- Targeted physiotherapy to decompress nerves
- Stretching and strengthening to correct posture
- Electrical stimulation (TENS therapy) for pain reduction
Nerve Block Injections & Spinal Injections
- Corticosteroids or anesthetics delivered near affected nerves
- Reduces inflammation and improves mobility
Lifestyle and Ergonomic Modifications
- Avoiding heavy lifting or prolonged sitting
- Posture correction at workstations
- Weight management and blood sugar control (for diabetics)

Dr. Alam always begins with non-surgical strategies, focusing on long-term relief and nerve healing.

When Is Surgery Needed for Chronic Nerve Pain?

Surgery is considered when:

Pain persists despite 8–12 weeks of therapy and medications
Imaging shows structural damage (e.g., herniated disc, spinal canal narrowing, tumor)
Nerve compression is causing weakness or muscle loss
Non-surgical approaches no longer provide relief

Surgical procedures performed by Professor Dr. Md. Shafiul Alam include: