Neuropathy

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy occurs when you have damage to your nerves, causing them to lack proper function. It can bring on chronic pain and other issues that may become debilitating.

The disorder interferes with your peripheral nervous system, which is the network of nerves that sends signals from your brain to your body. 

The peripheral nervous system is made up of:

Sensory nerves

Sensory nerves carry messages from your five senses, which are touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing, to your brain.

Motor nerves

Motor nerves assist in carrying messages from your brain to your muscles. These messages are responsible for their ability to contract and relax. 

Autonomic nerves

Your autonomic nerves are responsible for regulating the functions that can get out of control, like your breathing, digestion, and heart rate.

Neuropathy is a common disorder that can affect anyone at any age, but you become more at risk as you age. 

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Numbness in your feet and hands (can also spread to your legs and arms)
• Sensitivity to touch
• Sharp, throbbing, or burning pain
• Tingling sensation
• Lack of coordination
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Sweating too much or too little
• Sexual dysfunction

When you have neuropathy, you can also be at a higher risk of falling. 

What causes neuropathy?

Diabetes is one of the main causes for the development of neuropathy. When you have uncontrolled high levels of blood sugar, the cells of your nerves can be damaged or even destroyed, which interferes with how your nerves and brain communicate.

Other causes include:

• Trauma
• Tumors
• Autoimmune diseases
• Organ disease
• Infections

Neuropathy can also develop if you take cancer treatments or have a vitamin B deficiency. You can also have neuropathy for no known reason, which is called idiopathic neuropathy.

How is neuropathy treated?

At Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic, your provider works to identify the underlying issue that’s causing your neuropathy. In some cases, your neuropathy can be cured. 

Treatment options to help manage and control your symptoms while preventing further damage to your nerves include:

• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Surgery
• Braces or orthotics
• Shockwave therapy

You might receive guidance on eating a healthier diet and making lifestyle changes that include healthy living habits like exercising and limiting your alcohol.

If you have symptoms of neuropathy, call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic today to book your appointment. You can also schedule your visit online.