02/26/2026
Neuropathic pain can happen when your nervous system malfunctions or becomes damaged, causing nerves to send the wrong pain signals even without an obvious injury.
This can lead to sensations such as burning, stabbing, electric shock-like pain, tingling, or numbness in the affected area. Unlike ordinary pain from a twist or sprain, nerve pain can persist, flare up unpredictably, or feel very intense even when nothing seems physically wrong.
Recognizing these unusual pain patterns may help you talk with your provider about targeted treatments.