There are many medical conditions that can cause nerve pain in the legs and feet, including chronic ones like multiple sclerosis (MS).

The nerve pain that people with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience can be caused directly by the disease or by related illnesses, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis.

There are several different ways that MS can cause nerve pain. Multiple sclerosis demyelination can affect the sensory regions of the brain and spinal cord, causing diminished sensation or abnormal sensations, such as pain.

MS also makes movement and gait, or the process of walking, difficult. As the weakness and muscle spasticity progress, people with MS are likely to experience stiffness and aching.

In MS, there are different types of pain that can include:

  • neuropathic pain caused by demyelination of sensory areas of the brain and spinal cord
  • muscle or joint pain from stiffness, spasms, spasticity, and muscle tightness
  • muscle or joint pain due to other inflammatory conditions that commonly affect people with MS, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or fibromyalgia

But with the right treatments — both natural and prescription — you’ll likely be able to find some relief.

MS pain can vary from dull and sporadic to stabbing, severe, and constant. It can feel like tingling, burning, or electric shocks if caused by demyelination, or it can feel like aching and soreness if caused by spasms.

In severe cases, small triggers like a cold breeze or uncomfortable clothing can cause pain in people with MS.

Managing pain usually involves a combination of multiple techniques, including prescribed medications and home remedies. Some of the following treatments may aid in pain relief:

According to Barbara Rodgers, a nutrition consultant who also has MS, too much heat can exacerbate symptoms. A hot bath or hot compress may make matters worse. However, warm compresses can provide comfort and relief. For many people with MS, being near a fan or using a cool compress or cool pack can also help.

A massage can serve several purposes, stimulating blood flow in the body and gently relieving muscle pain and tension while promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being. For people with MS, this relaxation is important and often difficult to come by.

Stress, depression, and anxiety can make people with MS more likely to report pain.

While managing stress on your own can be beneficial for you, it can also help to talk about your worries and concerns with a therapist or with peers in a support group, especially when you’re dealing with MS pain, disability, and the unpredictable nature of this disease.

Managing these stressors and psychological conditions can reduce the pain they once aggravated. Support groups and working with a therapist are just a few methods to lessen these psychological factors.

Nerve pain can be caused and exacerbated by certain nutritional deficiencies. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and avoid or reduce habits that can cause deficiencies, like alcohol or smoking.

Your doctor can help you determine if you may be deficient in:

Your doctor can assess whether a supplement would be right for you. Rodgers also suggests Wobenzym, a supplement that’s intended to help stiffness and soreness.

Many people have food sensitivities or allergies that are undiagnosed.

If you take the time to eliminate certain common allergens from your diet (just one at a time) to observe whether you’re experiencing any changes, you can potentially identify food sensitivities or allergies that you might not be aware of.

Rodgers says that people with MS should take a critical look at what they’re eating and consider eliminating common culprits when it comes to nerve pain. These might include corn, dairy, gluten, soy, and sugar.

You should see a doctor if your symptoms worsen, if you experience new symptoms, or if your nerve, muscle, or joint pain prevents you from your normal activities.

Living with a condition like MS can be difficult. The pain is hard to cope with emotionally, and it can affect your mobility and quality of life. Speak with your doctor about the best multipronged approach for you.