Numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and other symptoms of peripheral neuropathy make living with the condition a challenge. During your visit to Yaden Physical and Integrated Medical in Moncks Corner, SC, Dr. Jerald Yaden and Dr. Rima Patel will offer treatments that will help you manage your uncomfortable symptoms.
What causes peripheral neuropathy?
Neuropathy occurs when the nerves that travel from your spinal cord and brain become damaged and can't transmit signals effectively. Peripheral neuropathy usually affects the feet, legs, arms, and hands. More than 20 million Americans have the condition, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Common causes of peripheral neuropathy include:
- Trauma: Nerve damage can happen due to injuries or constant pressure on the nerves. Broken bones, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, herniated discs, and falls or accidents that compress, stretch, or detach nerves may cause the condition.
- Diabetes: If high blood sugar isn't controlled, nerve damage can occur. Numbness due to nerve damage may make it difficult to feel sores on the feet, which can lead to serious infections. One-third to 1/2 of people with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, increase your risk of developing neuropathy.
- Kidney or Liver Conditions: Nerve damage may be caused by toxins that build up in your blood as a result of liver or kidney disease.
- Blood Flow Problems: Lack of oxygen due to poor blood flow may damage your nerves.
- Hormone Issues: A hormonal imbalance can affect many aspects of your health, including nerve function.
- Infections: Did the tingling and numbness in your feet or hands start after an illness? Some types of infections, like Lyme disease, HIV/AIDs, herpes simplex, and the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles, may damage nerves.
- Cancer: Nerve damage can occur if tumors grow around nerves or might occur as a result of chemotherapy medications or radiation therapy.
Treating peripheral neuropathy
During your visit to the Moncks Corner, SC, office, your doctor will review your neuropathy symptoms, perform an examination, and recommend tests and treatment options when you visit the Moncks Corner office. Treatment options may include patches and creams, chiropractic therapy, medications, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or surgery in some cases. Treating an underlying condition, improving your diet, and embracing a healthy lifestyle may decrease your symptoms.
Are you struggling with peripheral neuropathy symptoms? Call (888) 473-4394 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Yaden or Dr. Patel at the Moncks Corner, SC, office of Yaden Physical and Integrated Medical.