A newer, novel approach to treatment of painful neuropathy is to use a patch called Lidoderm. This is a patch with a special form of Novocaine embedded in it. Patients can put the patches over the area of pain, frequently with good relief. One patch is good for about 24 hours. There is no additional numbing sensation from the patch itself. It is important that patients with neuropathy understands that there is no treatment that will give the the sensation back but only to control the pain or discomfort associated with the neuropathy. Lidoderm has FDA approval for treatment of postherpetic neuralgia, a very painful condition seen after an attack of shingles.

Combinations of various modalities of neuropathy treatment are frequently used to provide patients with an improved quality of life. There are other less commonly used drugs and treatments that sometimes help patients function better. It is important to note that narcotic pain medications are not mentioned here as this class of drugs is notoriously ineffective in treating nerve pain. Additionally, they are habit forming, addictive and tend to lose their effect after a while, requiring even higher dosages which lead further to addiction. In summary, if you or someone you know has painful neuropathy, get them in to see a neurologist that has training in treating this condition
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