Neuropathy

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy isn’t a disease, but a general term that indicates damage to the peripheral nerves. Your nervous system is comprised of two parts: your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral nervous system (the nerves that branch out from your brain and spine to the rest of your body).

Peripheral nerves provide information to and from your brain and play a role in sensation and motor function. Your peripheral nerves also control functions you don’t think about, such as digestion or blood pressure.

If a peripheral nerve is damaged or destroyed, it alters the nerve signals, which may lead to various symptoms or health issues.
What symptoms would I experience with neuropathy?

Neuropathy symptoms vary depending on the types of nerves affected. The peripheral nerves and their neuropathy symptoms may include:

Sensory nerves

If your sensory nerves are damaged, you may feel strange sensations, such as tingling or burning. Or you may not be able to feel any sensations, such as the heat from the hot stove.

Motor nerves

The motor nerves control muscle function. If a motor nerve is damaged, it may affect your ability to control muscle movement, which may lead to weakness and loss of muscle function (also called wasting).

Autonomic nerves

The autonomic nerves control the functions you don’t have to think about. If your neuropathy is affecting an autonomic nerve, you may experience digestive issues or changes in blood pressure.

Though it’s possible to damage only one nerve, most people with neuropathy have many damaged nerves, which is referred to as polyneuropathy.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

Because of the array of symptoms, neuropathy can be difficult to diagnose, and you may undergo many tests before anyone mentions neuropathy. The team at Midwest Neurology Associates conducts comprehensive examinations when you come to the office with concerns about neuropathy. The team reviews your medical history and symptoms and conducts a physical and neurological exam.

Diagnostic tests may be needed to further evaluate your health, as well as the function of your nerves. These tests may include:

• Blood tests
  
• Genetic tests
  
• Nerve conduction studies
  
• Electromyography

The diagnostic tests offered at Midwest Neurology Associates may determine if your nerves are damaged, as well as the impact the damage is having on your body.

What are the treatments for neuropathy?

Treatment for your neuropathy may depend on many factors, including the underlying cause of the nerve damage, the types of nerves affected, and your symptoms. The team at Midwest Neurology Associates creates individualized treatment plans that may include:

• Physical therapy
  
• Massage therapy
  
• Medication
  
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) unit

Managing the underlying cause of your neuropathy is also essential to prevent further damage. Diabetes is one of the most common causes of neuropathy, and improving blood sugar control is an essential part of the neuropathy treatment plan.

Midwest Neurology Associates offers innovative testing and treatment for neuropathy. Call the office to schedule an appointment.