Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a disorder that can greatly affect the functioning of the peripheral nerves and cause immense discomfort. It is a condition that effects millions of people – the Neuropathy Association reports that 20 million Americans currently suffer from this disease. If you are one of the many individuals living with the pain of peripheral neuropathy, Preferred Spine & Rehab may be able to help.
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatments
At Preferred Spine & Rehab, we offer a proprietary PN treatment program. We utilize a number of effective therapies to help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with peripheral neuropathy, such as:
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
30% of PN cases have an unknown cause, while the remaining percentage is believed to result from the following conditions, they include:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Diabetes (Diabetic Neuropathy)
- Chronic kidney disease
- Liver Infections
- Dietary Issues (Insufficient B12 levels)
- Thyroid Problems
Infections, heredity, and toxins may also cause this disorder to develop.
The Peripheral Nerves
What are the Peripheral Nerves?
Anatomically speaking, “peripheral” means on the outside. The peripheral nerves, along with a mass of cells, build the peripheral nervous system located outside of the skull and the spinal column. They are not protected like the Central Nervous System (CNS), which resides within the cranium and spinal column. The peripheral nerves connect the CNS to the organs and limbs. With this design, the peripheral nerves are left exposed to all sorts of bad things including toxins and higher risks of injuries, whether work-related or from sports or automobile trauma.
What do the Peripheral Nerves Do?
The peripheral nervous system consists of cells that deliver information to and from the Central Nervous System. These motor, sensory and autonomic nerves connect your spinal cord to your muscles, skin, and internal organs. When you touch something hot or cold, the sensory nerves shoot a lightning-fast message to your brain about the sensation. The autonomic nerves affect the heart rate, digestion, respiration and so forth. And, of course, the motor nerves assist in your movements.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
- Tingling and numbness
- Painful burning sensation
- Loss of feeling
- Muscle weakness
This symptom list is not all inclusive, as there are many symptoms of PN