A word about nerve tests (electrodiagnostic test, EMG/NCS)... these test are grossly test nerve function. You have to have some pretty bad nerve damage for it to show up on this test. Nerves can become irritated and sensitive at a cellular level which is not easily testable. Looking at mice and rat studies, we see multiple cellular changes in the nerves like: "Flood gates" open (receptors open), wind-up occurs (more sensitive receptors are created), and the brain becomes active in multiple areas. None of this is measured in a nerve test in the doctors office. Don't be fooled, you have a nerve issue. Pain, numbess, cold sensitivity, especially in a stocking distribution. No doubt this is nerve pain and sensitivity. Those sensitive nerves can get a little more anger if a needle or knife get close. They are just protecting you, that's their job and they are doing a darn fine job. Too good of a job!

Many, many things can cause nerve sensitivity. Diabetes, thyroid disease, alcohol, vascular disease, smoking, heavy metals, genetics, the list goes on and on. When all the bad things are ruled out and the patient is left in pain, sometimes all that can be done is treat the symptoms and stay calm.

Dr. Christina Lasich, MD