Nerve pain after surgery can be frustrating and difficult to manage.
If you’re feeling tingling, numbness, or burning pain that won’t go away, you may be dealing with neuropathy after surgery.
Post-surgical neuropathy happens when nerves are damaged, compressed, or irritated during or after a procedure.
In some cases, it improves over time, but for many people, it becomes a long-term issue.
Let’s take a look at what causes it and the best treatment options that can help you find relief and prevent further complications.
What Causes Neuropathy After Surgery?
Surgery can affect nerves in different ways.
Some of the most common reasons for nerve pain after surgery include:
Nerve Damage During Surgery
Surgeons do their best to avoid harming nerves, but in some cases, nerves get stretched, cut, or pinched during the procedure.
Even minor nerve damage can lead to pain, weakness, or numbness in the affected area.
Scar Tissue and Inflammation
After surgery, your body forms scar tissue as part of the healing process.
If scar tissue builds up around a nerve, it can cause pain and limit nerve function.
Inflammation from the surgery itself can also press on nerves, leading to discomfort.
Swelling and Nerve Compression
Swelling is a normal part of healing, but too much of it can put pressure on surrounding nerves.
This compression can cause burning, tingling, or shooting pain that may persist even after the swelling goes down.
Reduced Blood Flow to Nerves
Nerves need a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly.
If a surgery affects blood flow to an area, the nerves may suffer, leading to postoperative neuropathy.
Underlying Health Conditions
Some people are more at risk for nerve damage after surgery because of existing health issues, such as:
- Diabetes, which increases the risk of nerve complications
- Autoimmune diseases, which can trigger inflammation and nerve damage
- Poor circulation, which can slow nerve healing
If you have one of these conditions, it’s important to take extra steps before and after surgery to protect your nerves.
Symptoms of Neuropathy After Surgery
Neuropathy symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected, but common signs include:
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
- Numbness in or around the surgical site
- Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain
- Sensitivity to touch or temperature changes
- Muscle weakness or difficulty moving the affected area
- Pain that doesn’t improve over time
If these symptoms last for weeks or months after surgery, you may be dealing with chronic postsurgical pain or long-term nerve damage.
The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of recovery.
Surgeries That Commonly Cause Neuropathy
Some types of surgery are more likely to cause nerve pain or damage, including:
- Spinal surgeries (discectomy, spinal fusion, laminectomy)
- Knee and hip replacements
- Hernia repair
- Mastectomy or breast surgery
- Amputations
- Dental and jaw surgeries
If you’re preparing for surgery, talk to your doctor about ways to minimize nerve damage and speed up recovery.
Traditional Treatments for Post-Surgical Neuropathy
Most doctors start with conventional treatments to manage neuropathy after surgery, including:
Medications for Nerve Pain
Over-the-counter pain relievers may help mild symptoms, but for severe nerve pain, doctors often prescribe gabapentin, pregabalin, or antidepressants to reduce nerve sensitivity.
Physical Therapy
Exercises and stretches can help improve circulation, mobility, and nerve function.
Physical therapy is especially useful after joint surgeries or spinal procedures.
Nerve Blocks or Injections
Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the affected nerve.
However, they don’t repair the underlying nerve damage.
Surgical Revision
In some cases, a second surgery may be needed to release trapped nerves or remove scar tissue.
This is usually a last resort if other treatments don’t work.
While these options can help manage symptoms, they don’t heal damaged nerves.
That’s where regenerative medicine comes in.
SEE WHICH OPTION IS RIGHT FOR YOU
How Marin Regenerative Health Can Help Neuropathy After Surgery
At Marin Regenerative Health, we take a non-surgical approach to treating neuropathy by focusing on nerve regeneration and healing.
- Stem Cell Therapy for Neuropathy: Stem cell therapy uses your body’s own healing cells to repair damaged nerves and reduce inflammation. This treatment has shown promise in helping people regain sensation and reduce nerve pain.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP is made from your own blood and contains natural growth factors that promote nerve repair and reduce pain. Studies show that PRP is effective at reducing neuropathy symptoms.
- Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment stimulates blood flow, helping damaged nerves recover faster.
- Ozone Therapy: Ozone therapy can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are major contributors to chronic nerve pain.
At Marin Regenerative Health, we combine these advanced treatments to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support long-term nerve health.
How to Prevent Neuropathy After Surgery
While not all cases of post-surgical neuropathy can be avoided, there are steps you can take to lower your risk:
- Prepare Before Surgery – Keep diabetes, circulation, and vitamin levels in check before the procedure.
- Reduce Inflammation – Follow a low-inflammatory diet and take anti-inflammatory supplements.
- Follow a Strong Recovery Plan – Physical therapy, movement, and nerve-friendly treatments can prevent chronic pain from developing.
If you’re already experiencing nerve pain after surgery, early treatment can improve your chances of a full recovery.
When to Seek Help for Post-Surgical Neuropathy
If your nerve pain, numbness, or weakness isn’t improving or is getting worse, don’t wait to get help.
The sooner you address nerve damage, the better the outcome.
At Marin Regenerative Health, we offer cutting-edge regenerative treatments that help your body heal from the inside out.
If you’re struggling with neuropathy after surgery, our team is here to help.
Conclusion: Neuropathy After Surgery
Neuropathy after surgery can be frustrating and painful, but you don’t have to live with it.
Regenerative medicine is changing the way we treat nerve damage—without the need for more surgery or long-term medications.
If you’re ready to explore a non-surgical solution for neuropathy, schedule a consultation with Marin Regenerative Health today.
FAQs: Neuropathy After Surgery
Can chemo cause neuropathy?
Yes, chemotherapy can cause neuropathy, a condition known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Certain chemotherapy drugs damage peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms like tingling, numbness, and burning pain. In some cases, neuropathy improves after treatment ends, but for others, it may become a long-term condition.
What is sciatic neuropathy?
Sciatic neuropathy occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs, is damaged or compressed. This can happen due to spinal surgery, herniated discs, or direct nerve trauma during a procedure. Symptoms often include sharp leg pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking.
How long does post-surgical neuropathy last?
The duration of post-surgical neuropathy varies. Some people recover within a few weeks to months as the nerves heal, while others experience chronic neuropathy that lasts for years. The extent of nerve damage, overall health, and treatment approach all play a role in recovery time.
Does neuropathy go away?
Neuropathy can improve over time if the underlying cause is treated and the nerves have the ability to regenerate. However, chronic neuropathy may not go away completely and could require long-term management. Regenerative treatments like stem cell therapy and PRP may help encourage nerve healing.
How do I know if my neuropathy is permanent?
If neuropathy symptoms persist for over a year, show no improvement, or worsen despite treatment, it may be permanent. A nerve conduction study or electromyography (EMG) test can help determine the extent of nerve damage and whether recovery is possible. Seeking early intervention improves the chances of nerve regeneration.
Does walking help heal neuropathy?
Yes, walking and other low-impact exercises can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support nerve regeneration. Regular movement can prevent stiffness, strengthen muscles, and promote nerve function recovery. However, if walking worsens your pain, it’s best to consult a specialist for a personalized rehabilitation plan.
