Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment in Post Falls, ID

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is a part of the nervous system that consists of nerves and ganglia located outside of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system (CNS) and the rest of the body, including muscles, organs, and tissues. The PNS includes sensory nerves that convey information from the body to the CNS and motor nerves that carry signals from the CNS to muscles and organs, allowing for voluntary and involuntary movement.

Peripheral neuropathy refers to a condition in which there is damage to the peripheral nerves, disrupting their normal functioning. It can affect multiple nerves in different areas of the body simultaneously (polyneuropathy) or a single nerve (mononeuropathy). Peripheral neuropathy can result from various causes, including physical injury, infections, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, toxic exposure, and certain medications. These various causes result in a reduction of blood flow (microcirculation) to the nerves. The nerves do not receive the appropriate oxygen and nutrients from the blood resulting in nerve damage, and for most patients, it results in pain and lifestyle modifications.

We’ll use two tests to evaluate blood flow and sensory nerve damage in your feet and hands.

1. Thermal Imaging – assesses changes in blood flow.  Decreased blood flow means less oxygen and nutrients and decreased circulation.
2. Electrical Conductivity Gloves – assess sensory nerve damage in the feet and hands.

The results of the two tests will either qualify or disqualify you for more advanced nerve testing with the doctor.

Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, occurs when there is damage or dysfunction to the peripheral nerves. This damage disrupts the normal functioning of the nerves and impairs their ability to transmit signals effectively. The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary depending on the type of nerves affected (sensory, motor, or autonomic) and the underlying cause of the neuropathy. Here are some common symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy:

The three types of neuropathy can affect the PNS in several ways:

Sensory Neuropathy – affects nerves that control sensation, symptoms include:

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the hands, feet, or other affected areas
• Numbness or reduced sensation in the hands, feet, or other areas of the body
• Burning or shooting pain, which may be constant or intermittent
• Hypersensitivity to touch or temperature changes
• Loss of coordination or difficulty with fine motor skills

Motor Neuropathy – affects motor nerves, symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness, especially in the hands or feet
• Muscle cramps or muscle twitching
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Changes in gait or walking pattern
• Muscle wasting or decreased muscle mass

Autonomic Neuropathy – affects the autonomic nerves, which control involuntary functions of the body, symptoms include:

• Abnormal blood pressure or heart rate, such as orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing up) or tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
• Digestive problems, including nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
• Bladder dysfunction, such as urinary urgency, frequency, or incontinence
• Sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction in men or decreased libido in both men and women
• Sweating abnormalities, such as excessive sweating or lack of sweating

A wide range of factors can cause peripheral neuropathy. Some of the common causes include:

1. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels over an extended period can damage nerves, leading to neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a prevalent form of peripheral neuropathy.
2. Trauma or Injury: Physical injuries, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury, can damage peripheral nerves and result in neuropathy.
3. Infections: Certain infections, including shingles (herpes zoster), Lyme disease, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, and Epstein-Barr virus, can cause peripheral neuropathy.
4. Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) involve the immune system attacking the nerves.
5. Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins B1 (thiamine), B6, B12, and E, as well as niacin and folate, can contribute to peripheral neuropathy.
6. Alcohol Abuse: Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can cause nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.
7. Medications and Toxins: Certain medications can lead to neuropathy, including chemotherapy drugs, antiretroviral drugs used to treat HIV, and antibiotics.Exposure to toxins like heavy metals (lead, mercury), industrial chemicals, and pesticides can also cause nerve damage.
8. Genetic Factors: Some inherited disorders, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, can result in peripheral neuropathy.
9. Kidney or Liver Disorders: Conditions affecting the kidneys or liver can cause an imbalance of chemicals and toxins in the body, leading to nerve damage.
10. Other Medical Conditions: Peripheral neuropathy can be associated with hypothyroidism, cancer, multiple sclerosis, amyloidosis, and more.

It’s important to note that these are just some common causes, and there may be other less common or unknown causes of peripheral neuropathy. The providers and staff at North Idaho Neuropathy can conduct a thorough examination, review your history, and set an appropriate treatment plan to help you stop this condition and regain your quality of life.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common condition that affects a significant number of people worldwide. However, it is challenging to provide an exact number as the prevalence can vary depending on the population studied and the underlying causes. Here are some general statistics:

1. United States: It is estimated that peripheral neuropathy affects approximately 20 million people, making it widespread.
2. Global Estimates: Globally, it is difficult to determine the exact prevalence of peripheral neuropathy due to variations in reporting and diagnosis. However, it is believed to affect millions of individuals worldwide.
3. Diabetes-Related Neuropathy: Among individuals with diabetes, it is estimated that up to 50% may develop peripheral neuropathy at some point in their lives. Given the increasing prevalence of diabetes globally, this contributes significantly to the overall number of people affected by neuropathy.
4. Age-Related Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy becomes more common with age. Studies have suggested that up to 30% of individuals over 65 may have some form of neuropathy.

Other underlying conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, infections, and certain medications, can also contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy.

It’s important to note that peripheral neuropathy can vary in severity and presentation. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms that do not significantly impact their daily lives, while others may have more severe symptoms that affect their mobility and overall quality of life.