Peripheral Neuropathy Specialist

What is peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when one or more nerves become damaged or dysfunctional. Neuropathy affects peripheral nerves, which are all the nerves outside of your central nervous system. 

Peripheral nerves serve many purposes:

• Sensory nerves carry information from various senses to your brain
• Motor nerves control movement by sending messages from your brain to muscles
• Autonomic nerves control essential bodily functions like breathing and digestion

Neuropathy can affect any type of nerve and may affect several nerves at the same time. The specific neuropathy symptoms you experience depend on the type and location of the nerve or nerves affected.

What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms. You may notice a gradual onset of numbness or a pins-and-needles sensation in your feet or hands. Eventually, the numbness and tingling may spread to your arms or legs. 

Other signs and symptoms of neuropathy include:

• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Lack of coordination or falling
• Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain
• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Excessive sweating or not being able to sweat
• Bowel, bladder, or digestive issues
• Dizziness or lightheadedness due to changes in blood pressure

Call Valiant Life Medical right away if you experience any of these symptoms. Getting an early diagnosis and treatment gives you the best chances of controlling your neuropathy symptoms.   

What causes peripheral neuropathy?

Neuropathy may be due to an underlying medical condition, or it may occur without a clear cause. Possible causes of neuropathy include:

• Diabetes
• Metabolic syndrome
• Heavy alcohol use
• Infections, including HIV and Lyme disease
• Trauma to or pressure on a nerve
• Certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy
• Exposure to toxic substances, including mercury and lead
• Tumors that press on nerves
• Autoimmune diseases, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis

Diabetes is a major risk factor for neuropathy. More than half of people with diabetes get neuropathy. 

How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed and treated?

First, your Valiant Life Medical provider reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam. They may take a variety of tests, including:

• Blood tests
• CT or MRI imaging scans
• Nerve function tests, such as TM Flow testing
• Nerve or skin biopsy

Then, they develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. Treatment may begin with addressing an underlying condition, such as Type II diabetes. 

The multidisciplinary team at Valiant Life Medical offers many integrative treatments to relieve the symptoms of neuropathy, including physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and chiropractic care. 

To find relief from neuropathy, call Valiant Life Medical, or book an appointment online today.