Whether you experience neuropathy due to diabetes or another chronic condition, you probably know the pain and loss of function that come with this condition. Neuropathy can take away your comfort, your ability to relax and enjoy the things you love doing in life. But there is hope. If neuropathy has distracted you from living, learn how you can take back your life and break free from the constant cycle of pain and discomfort.
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy or more specifically peripheral neuropathy is a condition which occurs when the periphery nerves, meaning those located outside of the brain and spinal cord, become damaged. This can be caused by numerous diseases and trauma to the body. Diabetes is one of the most common diseases which causes neuropathy, however infections, injuries, autoimmune diseases, chemotherapy and some hereditary diseases, as well as other conditions can lead to neuropathy.
Usually specific regions of the body like the feet, legs, arms, or hands are affected by neuropathy. There are varying levels of neuropathy. Mononeuropathy is the term used to describe a single affected nerve, while polyneuropathy is the name for the condition when multiple nerves are being affected.
What are the most common symptoms of neuropathy?
Neuropathy, even when it affects a singular nerve, can be quite painful and debilitating. The level of severity depends on which nerve is affected, since different nerves control different parts of the body and body functions. When the nerves of the hands or feet are affected, numbness and a chronic feeling of tingling can occur. Patients however can also experience other sensations, such as burning, jabbing, or sharp pains.
Some patients experience sensitivity and the nerve disruption can cause loss of function, inhibiting mobility and the ability to balance. This can lead to life-threatening falls. Neuropathy of the autonomic nerves, which control general body functions, can also lead to serious issues with the ability to sweat, digest food, and control blood pressure.
How can neuropathy impact your daily life?
Neuropathy may not be life threatening, however it can lead to severe disability and pain. The earlier it is diagnosed and treatment is started, the better for patient outcomes. The chronic pain, coupled with disturbing feelings of burning and tingling can greatly affect a person’s quality of life. Imagine trying to spend a restful day doing your favorite hobbies and activities and being burdened by constant foot, leg or arm pain.
Even simple tasks like walking and holding objects can become extremely difficult due to numbness and a loss of sensation in the extremities. This lack of feeling can also increase the risk of injuries because you may not feel when your skin is cut or blistered. Muscles can also weaken when activities become limited, leading to it becoming increasingly difficult to perform simple tasks like climbing stairs and maintaining balance.
Patients who experience autonomic neuropathy may be reluctant to leave the house if they lose control of their bowel or bladder function. All of these physical symptoms can lead to emotional distress, with patients limited in their ability to work or participate in social activities. For these reasons, anxiety and depression often accompany neuropathy.
What are the most common treatments for neuropathy?
Prescription medications are one of the most common options for neuropathy. Over-the-counter NSAIDs are often recommended for minor symptoms, while stronger anti-seizure and antidepressant medications are prescribed for more severe symptoms. IV steroids, plasma exchanges, and surgery are often suggested for patients with more pronounced symptoms.
What are the drawbacks/side effects of traditional treatments?
NSAIDs carry potential side effects such as stomach ache, nausea, and diarrhea, while there are more serious long-term health risks when used frequently, such as kidney damage. Prescription medications often given to patients with neuropathy can cause side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness, which may make it difficult to maintain an active lifestyle. In addition they also carry other long-term risks, such as brain fog and fatigue.
How can chiropractic care help alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy?
Chiropractic care takes a holistic approach to healing. This means that a chiropractor will examine your whole body and take into account things like eating habits, lifestyle, and pain levels. By taking the time to learn about you and your body, a chiropractor is able to provide deep insights into the root causes of your neuropathy.
Chiropractors frequently utilize spinal decompression methods to release pressure on nerves that cause pain and numbness. The benefits of decompression can extend beyond peripheral neuropathy, helping promote the regeneration of compressed disks and allowing irritated nerves to heal, function more properly, and promote overall nerve health.
Oakland Spine & Physical Therapy Offers a Natural Solution for Neuropathy
At Oakland Spine and Physical Therapy, we’re uniquely equipped with multiple therapy options to help you break free from the pain of neuropathy and begin the healing process. In our North Jersey offices, we offer Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and photobiostimulation (laser therapy) to provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan that is both non-invasive and drug-free.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a medically proven process of delivering small electrical impulses to nerves. This treatment works by stimulating affected nerves and interrupting pain signals to the brain. Not only does this therapy provide effective pain relief, but it also helps improve blood circulation while relaxing affected muscles.
In our cutting edge Butler Spine Program, Oakland Spine and Physical Therapy has been a leader in offering Photobiostimulation (Laser Therapy) to promote healing and reduce inflammation and pain. Using a specific type of safe Class IV deep tissue laser, we can stimulate cellular activity to accelerate tissue repair, reduce nerve pain, and improve overall nerve function.
By combining effective breakthrough therapies like precision spinal decompression, TENS, and laser therapy, along with a host of supportive services such as physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy, we can provide you with the most well-rounded treatment option that cares for you as a whole person and patient, not just a series of symptoms. This helps you not only find relief from chronic pain, but also rebuild your strength, balance and mobility. This comprehensive approach to managing and alleviating the symptoms of neuropathy has helped many patients achieve better overall nerve health and improved quality of life. Let’s do the same for you!
