All About Neuropathy
What is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that involves damage to the nervous system – the communication network that sends signals between the brain and spinal cord and all other body parts.
Nerve signaling in neuropathy is disrupted in three ways:
- loss of signals normally sent
- inappropriate signaling when there shouldn’t be any
- errors that misrepresent the messages being sent
Neuropathy is a common condition as more than 20 million people in the United States have been found to have some form of peripheral neuropathy. However, this number may be higher since not all people with symptoms of neuropathy are tested.
Nerve Controls
Motor nerves control the movement of all muscles under conscious control, such as those used for walking, grasping things, or talking. Sensory nerves transmit information such as the feeling of touch, temperature, or pain from a cut. Autonomic nerves control organs to regulate breathing, digesting food, and heart and gland functions.
Causes of Neuropathy
There are many causes of neuropathy, but the most common are:
- Physical injury
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune diseases
- Kidney/Liver disorders
- Infections
- Cancer treatments
Symptoms of Neuropathy
Some common symptoms of neuropathy include:
- Numbness
- Tingling / burning sensation
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Pain
- Muscle weakness
- Organ dysfunction
Support Nerve Health
It is important to take action in supporting your nerve health as much as you possibly can. Nerve health and resistance can be improved by healthy lifestyle habits:
- Eat a balanced diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein)
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid repetitive motions and cramped positions that put pressure on your nerves
- Avoid exposure to toxic chemicals
- Avoid smoking and overindulging in alcohol
- Correct vitamin deficiencies
Treatments
Neuropathy is a chronic condition that we treat at Midwest Pain Solutions. Our high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) delivers healing light energy to the cells of the body. The light energy stimulates healing within your body through a series of biological changes at the cellular level. Our HILT improves blood flow, nerve function, and promotes healing at the source.
We offer no-cost consultations in order for you to sit one-on-one with Dr. Jackson to go over your chronic condition and learn more about our clinic. Call (920) 569-2350 to schedule yours today!
Sources:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/peripheral-neuropathy-fact-sheet
For more information:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780444640765000429
