What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is an ongoing (chronic) condition in which damage to your peripheral nervous system — the network of nerves that carries signals between your brain and other parts of your body — causes pain and other unpleasant symptoms. Treatment can reduce the symptoms and restore your quality of life.
What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?
If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy, you might notice the following symptoms:
- Muscle weakness
- Pain
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Touch sensitivity
- Sharp, jabbing, or throbbing pain
- Burning pain
- Falling and poor coordination
- Muscle weakness
- Feeling like you’re wearing socks or gloves
Pain associated with peripheral neuropathy often shows up in your hands and feet, but it can spread into your arms and legs.
What are the risk factors for peripheral neuropathy?
The following things often increase your risk of developing peripheral neuropathy:
- Diabetes
- Infections
- Autoimmune diseases
- Genetics
- Bone marrow problems
- Tumors
- Alcoholism
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Certain medications
- Nerve trauma
- Heavy metals and other toxic substances
If your peripheral neuropathy is idiopathic, it means the cause isn’t known. Complications that can result from untreated peripheral neuropathy include skin trauma, burns, infections, balance problems, and falling down.
How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed?
To diagnose peripheral neuropathy and find its root cause, the Fountain Valley Physical Medicine team reviews your medical history, discusses your symptoms, and completes a neurological exam. They can use blood tests, imaging tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans), and nerve function tests to make a final diagnosis.
How is peripheral neuropathy treated?
Your personalized neuropathy treatment is based on the severity of your symptoms. Your Fountain Valley Physical Medicine pain specialist could recommend:
- Pain creams
- Massage therapy
- Physical therapy
- Muscle or nerve stimulation
- K-laser treatments
- Radio pulse waves
- Rapid pulse waves
- Stem cell injections
During laser treatment, the Fountain Valley Physical Medicine team uses light energy to stimulate your body’s natural healing response. Radiofrequency waves also relieve pain naturally without needles, surgery, or downtime.
What can I do at home?
To better manage peripheral neuropathy symptoms, get regular exercise, don’t smoke, take care of your feet if you have diabetes, eat healthy foods, avoid excessive alcohol, and maintain control of your blood sugar.
Don’t live with neuropathy pain when simple solutions are within reach at Fountain Valley Physical Medicine. Schedule an appointment over the phone or online to find out which treatment is right for you.
