Peripheral Neuropathy

What are the Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy?

• Gradual onset of numbness, prickling, or tingling in the feet or hands spreading upward into the legs and arms.
• Sharp, jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain in the feet or hands.
• Extreme sensitivity to touch.
• Loss of coordination and falling.
• Muscle weakness, especially in the feet or hands.
• Inability to feel pain, pressure, or temperature changes.
• Lack of muscle control or twitching.
• Bowel or bladder problems.
• Dizziness or light-headedness.
• Sexual dysfunction.

How Can I Prevent Peripheral Neuropathy?

The most vital thing is to control your blood sugar levels. This will help prevent nerve damage from developing in your body. Suppose you have type 2 diabetes; try eating foods high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. These foods will help to lower cholesterol levels and inflammation and thus; protect against heart disease.

Other preventive measures include:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking
• Correcting vitamin deficiencies
• Eating a healthy diet
• Losing weight
• Avoid toxins
• Doing regular exercises

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves. This can result from a variety of factors. The common factor is diabetes, which causes nerve damage due to high blood sugar levels over time.

High blood glucose and fat levels in the blood from diabetes can damage the nerves and the small blood vessels nourishing them. This leads to peripheral neuropathy.

Smoking, excessive drinking, and high blood pressure are also risk factors for diabetes-related neuropathy.

Diabetes-related neuropathy is nerve damage caused by elevated blood sugar. High blood glucose causes chemical alteration in nerves. This impairs the nerves’ ability to transmit signals. It can also damage blood vessels carrying oxygen and nutrients to the nerves.

How Can You Test for Peripheral Neuropathy?

There are several ways to test for peripheral neuropathy. However, the initial step is a thorough physical examination of your medical history and symptoms. Meanwhile, the test is:

• Blood tests: These tests can identify possible underlying causes of neuropathy, such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies.
• Imaging tests: MRI or CT scans can help detect nerve damage, inflammation, or tumors causing neuropathy.
• Nerve function tests: Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) are used to measure nerve function and diagnose neuropathy.

What is a Nerve Conduction Test (NCS)?

A nerve conduction study (NCS) is a non-invasive diagnostic that measures the speed and strength of electrical signals in your nerves. During the test, electrodes are placed on your skin near the affected nerves.

A small electrical current is applied to stimulate the nerves. The response is recorded. The data obtained from these tests can help determine the extent of nerve damage and pinpoint the specific nerves involved.

Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy

Your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following approaches:

• Medication: Pain relievers, anti-seizure medications, and antidepressants can help alleviate neuropathic pain.
• Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams and patches containing capsaicin or lidocaine offer temporary relief.
• Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches can improve muscle strength, mobility, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
• Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and managing stress can help improve overall health to reduce neuropathy symptoms.

Contact Us to Get Tested for Peripheral Neuropathy!

It is not just about walking, it is about getting back to the activities you love. Suppose you are ready to get back in the game; we can help. If you have neuropathy, make sure to take care of your feet every day, which can save your feet in the future!

Our team has over 25 years of experience helping people with peripheral neuropathy get their lives back. We have helped thousands of people with peripheral neuropathy regain their mobility, strength, and independence.

That is why Burlington County Foot & Ankle Associates can help you understand your condition, determine appropriate treatment options, and develop a personalized recovery plan. Please get in touch with our office today by calling 609-714-0052, or by filling out our online contact form to schedule your appointment.