Lyrica (pregabalin) works well to control my nerve pain however side effects are horrible. is there a similar medication with less side effects and less pricey?

YES, SEVERAL: You could perhaps have less adverse effects with some of the newer designer Gabapentin products, such as horizant, or gralise. Another option is Cymbalta or savella, (milnacipran) and lastly perhaps a compounded pain creme.

Nutrients can help: Medications are one way of controlling nerve pain. Pain is a complex holistic process. You may be able to decrease need for meds by addressing other issues. That includes nutrient status, stress or emotional trauma that may have accompanied or pre-dated the injury, and movement and use of the limb. It's a complex topic. You might look for a doc who does integrative or functional medicine.