Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by numbness or pain in the hands or feet (though other areas of the body can be affected as well). Neuropathy usually results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which send information from your central nervous system (your brain and your spine) to the rest of your body. There are many potential causes, including traumatic injury, genetic predisposition, infection, and preexisting metabolic problems. While symptoms are exceedingly uncomfortable, they are often treatable. However, medical intervention is necessary, seeing as the root cause of the symptoms must be properly diagnosed. We at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches have extensive experience working alongside those suffering from peripheral neuropathy. We understand the importance of finding the root cause of this specific, pain-related disorder, so that treatment is as efficient and effective as possible.
Symptoms of Neuropathy
In some cases, those suffering from neuropathy will not experience any symptoms. However, if symptoms are present, they may include:
- A burning or sharp pain in the face, back, hands, feet, or thighs
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle cramping
- Difficulty walking
- Decreased coordination
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased balance
- Full-body weakness and fatigue
- Sensitivity to pain and touch
- Tingling sensation (pins and needles, especially in the hands and fingers)
- Slow reflexes
If you experience any of the above-listed symptoms, we at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches are available to help.
Treatment for Neuropathy
The most common and effective treatment for neuropathy is usually a combination of nerve pain medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, pain relievers, and topical, pain-relieving creams. Of course, the underlying issue must be addressed and adequately treated. If peripheral neuropathy is the result of diabetic nerve damage, for example, the concerned individual will likely need to make significant lifestyle changes, and begin regulating blood sugar (will insulin injections, or by other means). If peripheral neuropathy is caused by an extreme vitamin deficiency, the symptoms can essentially be reversed with some intensive vitamin therapy (in conjunction with an improved diet). In some cases, peripheral neuropathy can directly result from alcohol or drug abuse. If this is the case, chemical substance abuse must be ceased entirely. This may require intensive therapeutic intervention – perhaps even an extended stay at an inpatient treatment program. The treatment for neuropathy will depend entirely upon the root causes. Because of this, we at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches take ample time when diagnosing underlying conditions and developing a comprehensive plan of recovery.
How Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches Heals Neuropathy
We have extensive experience treating pain-related symptoms associated with neuropathy. We understand the importance of personalized treatment plans, seeing as the root causes of neuropathy tend to vary so significantly. Our first step will be diagnosing all underlying conditions, and doing what we can to treat those conditions (referring our patients to specialists, if need be). Next, we will treat pain using a combination of non-invasive treatment methods, ranging from pain relieving medications to alternative treatment methods such as massage and acupuncture.
If you are suffering from neuropathy, we can help. Call (561) 434-7577 and let the caring staff at Comprehensive Pain of the Palm Beaches get you on the path to healing.