Chronic Nerve Pain After COVID: Recognizing Post-Viral Neuropathy

Chronic Nerve Pain After COVID: Recognizing Post-Viral Neuropathy

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the clinical landscape and now, its neurological aftermath is showing up in our offices. One of the most common yet underdiagnosed complications of post-COVID syndrome is peripheral neuropathy.

These patients often present weeks or months after recovery, describing symptoms such as:

• Burning or tingling in the hands and feet

• Electric shock sensations

• Temperature sensitivity

• Persistent numbness or “buzzing” sensations

• Vague motor difficulties or imbalance

Most of these patients have seen multiple providers. They've been told their labs are normal. Their EMG is often unrevealing. But something is undeniably wrong.

Post-Viral Neuropathy Is Real and It’s Increasing

The underlying mechanisms likely include:

• Immune-mediated inflammation of peripheral nerves

• Microvascular injury and mitochondrial dysfunction

• Disrupted autonomic function

• Small fiber neuropathy, which traditional testing often misses

These symptoms may occur independently of respiratory severity even in patients who had mild COVID cases.

How the Independent Physician Can Lead

This is where the direct-pay, private model excels. You have the time, flexibility, and tools to go deeper:

• Screen with monofilament, vibration, and temperature discrimination tests

• Take thorough viral history and symptom timeline

• Run targeted labs: B12, B6, ESR, ANA, A1C, thyroid antibodies

• Validate the patient’s experience most have been dismissed or gaslit

Then, offer a restorative care plan:

• Low-inflammatory diet and mitochondrial support

• Infrared and red light therapy

• Laser, vagus nerve stimulation, or neurostimulation protocols

• Personalized supplement regimens for nerve repair

Don’t Let Their Symptoms Be Dismissed Again

These patients are searching for someone to believe them—and help them heal. When you offer a legitimate path forward, you do more than treat a condition. You restore trust in medicine.

Ready to Add Post-COVID Neuropathy Support to Your Practice?

Book a Strategy Session with John Hayes Jr., MD and learn how physicians are addressing this urgent, underserved need with clarity, compassion, and clinically sound tools.