What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves) are damaged. These nerves carry messages between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Damage disrupts these signals, often causing weakness, numbness, a 'pins and needles' sensation, and burning pain, typically starting in the hands and feet and spreading upwards.

Common Causes of Nerve Damage

• Diabetic Neuropathy: The most common cause, where prolonged high blood sugar levels damage nerve fibers.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, including Lyme disease, shingles (postherpetic neuralgia), and HIV.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: Particularly B vitamins (B1, B6, B12), which are crucial for nerve health.
• Toxin Exposure and Alcoholism: Exposure to heavy metals, certain medications (like chemotherapy), and chronic alcohol abuse.

Symptoms to Watch For

Patients often describe the pain of neuropathy as tingling, burning, or electric-like. Other symptoms include an extreme sensitivity to touch, lack of coordination and falling, muscle weakness, and a feeling as if you are wearing an invisible glove or sock.

Expert Diagnosis and Care Options

• Neurophysiological Testing: We conduct advanced Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) and Electromyography (EMG) to accurately confirm the type and extent of nerve damage.
• Underlying Cause Treatment: Identifying and addressing the root cause (e.g., intensive blood sugar control for diabetics, treating infections, or correcting vitamin deficiencies) to halt progression.
• Neuropathic Pain Management: Prescribing targeted medications such as anti-seizure drugs and certain antidepressants that are highly effective in treating nerve pain.
• Therapeutic Support: Guidance on foot care (especially for diabetics), occupational therapy, and physical therapy to improve strength, balance, and quality of life.