What’s Causing Your Unexplained Nerve Pain? Georgetown Chiropractor Shares Causes and Treatment Options

Unexplainable nerve pain can feel scary, frustrating, and isolating—especially when tests come back “normal” and the pain still doesn’t go away. This type of discomfort, often described as burning, tingling, electric shocks, or pins and needles, is usually related to irritation or damage in the nervous system. Understanding the possible causes, common symptoms, and available treatment options is the first step toward relief.​

What Is Unexplainable Nerve Pain?

Unexplainable nerve pain—sometimes called idiopathic neuropathic pain—refers to ongoing nerve pain where no single clear cause is found, even after thorough medical testing. It may arise from subtle nerve damage, past injuries, or changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals. People often notice burning, tingling, numbness, electric-shock sensations, or pain that feels worse at night or with light touch.​

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Even when your pain feels “unexplainable,” there are many known contributors that might play a role. Diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, infections, spinal disc problems, and nerve compression (like sciatica or carpal tunnel) are all common causes of neuropathic pain. In some cases, tests do not pinpoint a specific trigger, and the condition is labeled idiopathic neuropathy, meaning no clear underlying disease is identified. Prior injuries, repetitive strain, poor posture, and chronic inflammation can also irritate or compress nerves, especially around the spine and major nerve pathways.​

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Symptoms of unexplainable nerve pain can vary but often include: burning or shooting pain, tingling or “pins and needles,” numbness, hypersensitivity to touch, and weakness in the affected area. Some people notice their pain is worse at night, interferes with sleep, or makes simple activities like walking or standing difficult. If you experience these symptoms—especially if they are persistent, worsening, or associated with balance problems—you should seek a professional assessment promptly.​

How Chiropractic Care May Help

While chiropractic care does not cure all causes of neuropathy, it can play a valuable role when nerve pain is linked to spinal joint dysfunction, disc issues, or mechanical nerve compression. Spinal adjustments and gentle mobilizations aim to improve alignment, decrease pressure on irritated nerves, and restore more normal movement patterns. Studies suggest that spinal manipulative therapy can reduce pain intensity, improve function, and help relieve radiating or neuropathic pain in some patients by easing nerve pressure and improving blood flow and biomechanics. Complementary therapies—such as soft tissue work, stretching, and exercise recommendations—further support circulation, reduce muscle tension, and create a better environment for nerve healing.​

When to See Thomas Back and Body in Georgetown

If you are dealing with ongoing unexplainable nerve pain and are unsure where to turn next, a chiropractic assessment can help determine whether spinal or biomechanical factors are contributing to your symptoms. At Thomas Back and Body in Georgetown, Dr. Thomas will review your history, perform a detailed examination, and, if appropriate, provide gentle chiropractic adjustments and supportive therapies aimed at reducing nerve irritation and improving overall function. By combining collaborative care with your medical team and targeted conservative treatment, many patients experience meaningful improvements in comfort and quality of life.​

If you are ready to explore non-invasive options for managing nerve-related pain, contact Thomas Back and Body today to book a chiropractic adjustment and personalized consultation.

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References

Healthline. (2023, May 3). Neuropathic pain: Causes, symptoms, and treatment. https://www.healthline.com/health/neuropathic-pain​

Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 1). Peripheral neuropathy: Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy​

WebMD. (2024, March 12). Unexplained nerve pain: The mystery of neuropathic pain. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/unexplained-nerve-pain-the-mystery-of-neuropathic-pain​

Back in Action Bodyworks. (n.d.). Comparative efficacy of chiropractic adjustments in peripheral neuropathy management. https://www.backinactionbodyworks.com​

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (n.d.). Peripheral neuropathy. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy​