Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that can originate from anywhere in the nervous system and affects the hands and/or feet. Peripheral neuropathy is often associated with weakness, numbness, burning, tingling or pain. Patients sometimes refer to it feeling like ‘pins-and-needles’.
Neuropathy symptoms depend on the type of nerves being affected.
- Sensory nerves: sense sensations such as pain, vibration, temperature and touch
- Motor nerves: control the movement of muscles
- Autonomic nerves: control functions within the body such as heart rate, bladder, digestion and blood pressure.
While the exact cause of peripheral neuropathy is unknown, there are some known factors, including:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Diabetes
- Exposure to toxins
- Medications
- Infections
- Inherited disorders
- Trauma
- Pressure on nerves
Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:
- Burning and tingling
- Pain in hands, feet, back, face or thighs
- Pain more severe at night
- Cramping
- Difficulty walking
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of muscle
- Lack of coordination
- Pins-and-Needle sensation
- Reduced sensation of touch
- Poor balance
- Slow reflexes
- Oversensitivity
AHC works with clients to determine the type then develops a customized treatment plan.
Treatment options include:
