Is It Nerve Pain, Joint Pain, Or…?

For many patients, differentiating between joint pain and nerve pain is a serious hurdle to finding effective relief. At Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle, Dr. Bil Buksh specializes in the complex world of peripheral nerves, offering clarity and advanced solutions for pain that is often misunderstood.

An effective diagnosis is the starting point of any successful treatment plan. In this guide, we’ll explore the signs of nerve-related issues, then describe some of the modern treatments that can help you reclaim your comfort.

Nerve Pain vs. Arthritis: How to Tell the Difference

One of the most common points of confusion for patients is distinguishing nerve pain from the pain of arthritis or gout.

While both can be debilitating, they present with very different symptoms.

It might be ARTHRITIS if you experience:

• A deep, aching pain within the joint.
• Stiffness, especially in the morning, that improves with some movement.
• Visible swelling and reduced range of motion in the joint.
• Pain that typically worsens with weight-bearing activity.

It might be NERVE PAIN if you experience:

• Sensations of burning, tingling, or electrical “zaps.”
• Pain that is often worse at night or during periods of rest.
• Feelings of numbness or the sensation of a sock bunched up under your foot.
• Skin that is hypersensitive to even light touch, like a bedsheet.

Dr. Buksh Says: “A key differentiator is the type of pain. Arthritis is typically a dull, mechanical ache. Nerve pain is more sensory and electrical. Patients will tell me their foot feels like it’s ‘on fire’ or being stuck with pins and needles. That’s a classic sign that a nerve is involved.”

Beyond Medication: A Modern Solution for Chronic Nerve Pain

For years, the primary treatment for nerve pain has been oral medications, which can come with side effects and often lose their effectiveness over time. But modern medicine now offers a revolutionary, minimally invasive alternative for patients who are not candidates for decompression surgery: the Peripheral Nerve Stimulator.

How it Works: A peripheral nerve stimulator is a tiny device, about the size of a matchstick, that is placed under the skin near the affected nerve. It delivers gentle, imperceptible electrical pulses that interrupt the pain signals before they can reach the brain.

The Advantage:

• Targeted Relief: Unlike oral medications that affect your whole body, a nerve stimulator targets the exact source of your pain.
• Patient Controlled: You are in control. Using a small external remote, you can adjust the stimulation as needed.
• A Simple Trial: Before any commitment, patients can go through a simple trial period with an external device to see if the therapy provides significant relief.

Dr. Buksh says: “The peripheral nerve stimulator is a game-changer for patients with chronic nerve pain who haven’t found relief with other methods. It offers a way to manage pain and restore quality of life without surgery or a daily regimen of medication.”

Don’t Guess. Get an Expert Diagnosis!

You don’t have to live in a state of uncertainty, wondering if your pain is coming from your joints, muscles, or nerves. An accurate diagnosis is just a step away, and that will bring you far closer to relief that truly lasts.

Bill Buksh, DPM, works alongside his expert medical staff at Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle to offer superior podiatric care to anyone in need. Pairing thorough, comprehensive remedies for common podiatric conditions with unique specialty treatments for nerve pain, he and his team would be delighted to treat your feet. Contact us to schedule your appointment today.