Neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy, is nerve damage due to various health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Nerve damage can also be due to the side effects of chemotherapy, cholesterol drugs, and certain pain meds.
Although neuropathy is not curable; it is treatable. The question to ask is how much room for improvement is there for a more comfortable quality of life, usually to include less pain and more movement.
We’ll know from the consultation and exam if we can help you get the results you’re looking for.
The most common cause is poorly controlled diabetes, which accounts for almost 60% of the cases. Neuropathy can also be due to health conditions such as:
Shingles.
Kidney disease.
Infectious diseases.
Autoimmune diseases.
HIV.
Alcoholism.
Hereditary disorders.
Nutrient deficiencies.
Exposure to toxins.
Physical trauma.
Patients who get chemotherapy have a high risk of developing neuropathy. Other unknown factors that trigger the condition lead to about 20% of all cases.
The symptoms of neuropathy depend on the individual and the underlying health condition. Common symptoms include:
Prickling, burning, or tingling sensation.
Temporary or permanent numbness.
Muscle wasting or weakness.
Pain or paralysis.
Increased sensitivity to touch.
Organ or gland dysfunction.
Patients may also experience digestive system problems and impaired sexual function and urination.
The location of the nerve damage determines the type of neuropathy the patient has.
Mononeuropathy
is the type where damage occurs to one nerve. It is usually due to nerve injury or compression. A common mononeuropathy is carpal tunnel syndrome.
Polyneuropathy
is the damage that occurs when multiple nerves are affected. The damage can affect the sensory, autonomic, or motor nerves, which determines the symptoms.
Distal symmetric polyneuropathy
is prevalent among patients with diabetes. It causes numbness and pain in the feet and legs.
Your exam will be comprehensive and includes electrodiagnostic testing (non-painful), blood flow evaluation, qualitative sensory exam, and strength and balance testing. Our clinician will evaluate the patient’s history and ask about the symptoms. An examination of the patient’s physical condition can help determine the location and type of the discomfort.
The tests help to assess the nerve damage and establish the underlying cause of the neuropathy. Diagnosis helps to create an effective treatment plan.
There are various treatments and management options for neuropathy. The most common medical/allopathic approach is to mask the symptoms with medications like gabapentin or lyrica, or surgically implant nerve block stimulators; which all have side effects and don’t address the underlying cause.
Patients looking for a non-invasive, drug-free, and effective treatment can benefit from advanced neuropathy pain relief technology. Through years of experience, we have developed a comprehensive approach that is customized to each patient, addresses the underlying cause and can provide lasting relief.
Do you suffer from symptoms of neuropathy? Is pain keeping you from enjoying your life to the fullest? Advanced, non-surgical FDA-cleared treatment can help you improve your health and regain your vitality. You can get back to an active life and do not have to depend on medications or surgery.
For more on neuropathy, visit Simple Wellness Clinic. Our office is in West Linn, Oregon. Call (503) 212-9018 to book an appointment today.