Arthritis Pain Management

Arthritis is one of the most common forms of chronic pain, affecting millions of people worldwide. While it is often associated with pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint, many individuals experience additional pain. This pain may stem from nerve involvement, which can complicate arthritis pain management.

At Virgin Islands Neurology, we understand how complex arthritis symptoms can be. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating both joint and nerve-related pain. If you’re struggling to relieve arthritis pain, contact us today at one of our offices in the U.S. Virgin Islands to schedule a consultation!

An older woman with arthritis in her hands in the U.S Virgin Islands.

What is Neuropathic Arthritis Pain?

Arthritis affects the joints, but it can also impact the peripheral nerves. When the nerves surrounding inflamed joints become compressed or irritated, this can result in neuropathic pain. It’s different from typical inflammation-based joint pain because it involves how the body processes pain signals.

People who develop osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis are at increased risk of experiencing this kind of pain. The immune system, which plays a central role in rheumatoid arthritis, can also attack nerve tissues, compounding the discomfort.

How Arthritis Can Lead to Nerve Pain

Arthritis-related nerve pain is often due to:

For example, in severe arthritis, inflammation can lead to compression of nerves in the spine or limbs, producing sharp or radiating pain. Depending on the joints affected, this is often felt in the back, hands, knees, or feet.

Common Symptoms of Neuropathic Arthritis Pain

Recognizing nerve-related pain is essential in providing the right treatment. Here are some common signs:

These symptoms are particularly distressing because they often resist traditional arthritis treatments designed to manage inflammation alone.

Distinguishing Between Joint and Nerve Pain

Joint pain from arthritis usually feels dull and achy, and worsens with movement. It tends to improve with cold therapy, heating pads, or rest.

Nerve pain, by contrast:

This distinction helps guide treatment. Treating inflammation won’t be enough if nerve pain is the culprit.

Tailored Arthritis Pain Management at Virgin Islands Neurology

At Virgin Islands Neurology, our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and enhance your quality of life. We use a multidisciplinary, customized approach:

Medication Management

We prescribe a combination of:

  • Neuropathic pain medications like anticonvulsants or SNRIs
  • Anti-inflammatories to manage joint inflammation
 

Interventional Pain Procedures

For patients with persistent chronic pain, we offer advanced techniques for blocking pain signals, including:

 

These methods target the source of pain and may delay or prevent the need for total joint replacement.

Collaborative Care

Our pain specialists work hand-in-hand with rheumatologists to provide complete care. Whether you’re dealing with common types of arthritis, infection, or other types of health conditions, we develop a plan that fits your specific needs.

Educational Approaches

We also provide advice on lifestyle modifications and pain management techniques. This may involve the following:

  • Education on relaxation techniques, diet changes, and avoiding stress, which can worsen pain
  • Mental health support to manage depression or anxiety that often accompanies chronic pain

Who’s at Risk for Neuropathic Pain from Arthritis?

Anyone with arthritis can develop nerve-related pain, but certain risk factors make it more likely:

Early identification and staying active with guided exercises can help prevent long-term nerve pain.

Don’t Let Arthritis Control Your Life

Neuropathic pain can make arthritis even more painful and harder to manage. But you’re not alone. Our team at Virgin Islands Neurology is here to help you relieve pain and take back control.

Whether you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or any other type of arthritis, our comprehensive pain relief strategies can help. We’re proud to serve patients across the U.S. Virgin Islands with expert care, compassion, and long-term support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!