Chronic pain is often related to damaged nerves. The same nerves supply the organs, muscles, and skin. If these nerves are damaged, they may no longer “supply” the skin adequately. This can cause the skin to change color or texture. It also can alter the way certain sensations, such as light, touch and temperature, are felt.

Obviously, skin in the painful area may be discolored, appearing more pink or red than usual. And, in some cases, the skin may have a blue or mottled appearance. The changes in color like this are usually related to changes in blood flow. This is a common side effect of chronic nerve pain. Changes in the skin’s appearance are especially common in people with a peripheral nerve injury or damage to the nerves that are outside the spinal cord and brain.

CRPS

One chronic nerve disorder in which this is quite common is called reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). It is a chronic pain condition that causes swelling, redness, and pain, often in the hands and feet. And it is considered a neuropathic pain disorder, meaning it is caused by damage, irritation or destruction of nerves. While experts aren’t exactly sure of the exact cause of CRPS, they believe it is likely caused by either an overactive immune system response or a dysfunction in the sympathetic nervous system. Many times, people develop CRPS after an accident or illness that affects the nerves.

People with CRPS often experience skin texture changes as a result of their condition, along with other symptoms such as swelling, joint stiffness, burning or stabbing pain and hypersensitivity to cold, heat and touch. In some people, skin can become pale, red, purple or spotty and can look thin and shiny.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Another chronic nerve pain condition that can cause skin changes is diabetic neuropathy, a group of nerve disorders caused by diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can develop in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, usually affecting those with type 2 diabetes faster than those with type 1 diabetes, especially if left untreated.

The most common form is peripheral neuropathy, which can cause numbness or pain in the toes, feet, and legs, as well as the hands and arms. This can lead to infections and other skin problems because it’s possible to have a wound without knowing it. If you have this condition, and your skin is changing colors, keep an eye out for any further irritations and changes. Should you notice something, contact your doctor and ask about it. Often sharing a picture via the secure communication hub is an effective way to know if you need to be seen immediate for treatment, or if continuing to monitor is the best course of action.

What Can You Do?

Luckily, there are steps you can take, even if you do experience chronic nerve pain. If you have diabetes, managing your illness is key to avoid developing diabetic neuropathy. However, if you do develop numbness, proper foot care is key. Cleaning with mild soap and applying moisturizer to any dry or cracked skin are a couple of steps that can help avoid complications, as can wearing protective footwear and clean socks and avoiding going barefoot.

If you have CRPS, exercising and moving the affected limb can help you avoid swelling and joint stiffness by maintaining flexibility and preventing muscle loss. Your doctor may be able to prescribe medications that will help control symptoms and may help with skin texture and color issues.