Neuropathy

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a painful condition that develops when you have nerve damage or dysfunction. It causes symptoms, including:

• Local and radiating pain
• Numbness and tingling
• Electrical sensations
• Muscle weakness

Neuropathy usually begins in your feet or hands, affecting your balance and ability to pick up or grasp small objects. 

Your peripheral nervous system includes your sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. Depending on what type of nerve is affected, you might lose your ability to sense temperature or texture. Neuropathy can also change your blood pressure, temperature regulation, and bladder control. 

What causes neuropathy?

Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy. Blood sugar levels that are continuously elevated damage your nerves as well as your blood vessels. Other conditions that can cause neuropathy include:

• Autoimmune diseases
• Arthritis
• Infections like Lyme disease and shingles
• Tumors 
• Alcoholism

Your risk of neuropathy is higher if you’ve had chemotherapy or have been exposed to other poisons and toxic substances. Additionally, vitamin B deficiencies are critical to nerve health and can increase your chances of developing neuropathy.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

Dr. DeLaney provides comprehensive exams and testing to diagnose neuropathy and its cause. She reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam, including checking your reflexes and muscle strength and tone. She also checks your posture, coordination, and balance. 

If necessary, Dr. DeLaney can order nerve function tests like electromyography, blood tests, and imaging tests. She may also request that you have a glucose tolerance test to check for diabetes. 

How is neuropathy treated?

Dr. DeLaney provides customized treatment plans for neuropathy. She aims to reduce your symptoms, and when possible, address the underlying cause. Depending on your needs and the location of your nerve damage, your treatment plan might include:

• Physical therapy
• Epidural steroid injections
• Joint injections
• Piriformis/sciatic nerve injections
• Peripheral nerve blocks
• Cryotherapy
• Laser therapy
• Medication
• Ultrasound-guided joint and tendon steroid injections 
• Ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injections

Dr. Delaney can also recommend nutritional supplements and dietary changes to support nerve health and function. If you have diabetes or another health condition that’s causing your neuropathy, she can recommend treatments to regulate and manage your overall health. 

If you have symptoms of neuropathy, call Balanced Pain Management, or request an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment.