How Peripheral Neuropathy Is Diagnosed and Treated

Peripheral neuropathy is a medical condition that affects the peripheral nervous system, which is the network of nerves that connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body. 

This disorder can cause a wide range of symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hands, feet, arms, and legs. If left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can lead to severe complications, including muscle atrophy, loss of sensation, and even paralysis.

Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy can be challenging because its symptoms can resemble those of other medical conditions. Moreover, there are over 100 peripheral neuropathies, each with unique signs and causes. 

That's why seeking medical attention is essential if you experience unusual sensations or pain in your limbs, especially if they persist or worsen over time.

Diagnosis of Peripheral Neuropathy:

The first step in diagnosing peripheral neuropathy is to take a comprehensive medical history, including a detailed description of the symptoms and any factors that might contribute to the development of the condition, such as diabetes, alcohol abuse, or exposure to toxins. The doctor will also perform a physical examination, which may involve checking your reflexes, muscle strength, sensitivity to touch, temperature, and vibration.

In addition to the medical history and physical examination, the doctor may order some diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy and determine its underlying cause. These tests may include the following:

Nerve conduction studies: This test measures the speed and strength of electrical signals traveling through the nerves. The doctor can assess how well the nerves transmit signals by placing electrodes on the skin over the affected nerves and identifying any abnormalities.

Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of the muscles and can help determine if there is damage to the nerves that control them.

Blood tests can help detect underlying medical conditions that may cause peripheral neuropathy, such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders.

Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans can help detect abnormalities in the bones, muscles, or other tissues that may compress or damage the nerves.

Nerve biopsy: This test involves removing a small sample of nerve tissue for microscopic examination to identify abnormalities.

Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy:

The treatment of peripheral neuropathy depends on its underlying cause and the severity of its symptoms. In some cases, treating the underlying medical condition can help alleviate the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. For example, controlling blood sugar levels can help reduce nerve damage in people with diabetes.

Other treatments for peripheral neuropathy may include:

• Medications: There are several medications available to treat the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, such as pain, tingling, and numbness. These include over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications, and topical creams.

• Physical therapy: Exercises and physical therapy can help improve muscle strength and flexibility, reduce pain and discomfort, and prevent further nerve damage.

• Surgery: In severe cases of peripheral neuropathy, surgery may be necessary to remove tumors, repair damaged nerves, or release compressed nerves.

• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): This therapy uses low-level electrical impulses to stimulate the nerves and reduce pain.

• Lifestyle modifications: Making specific lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine, can help improve the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and prevent further nerve damage.

What we do to treat peripheral neuropathy

At Renew Medical Centre, we treat your peripheral neuropathy in an interdisciplinary manner, which means that our team consists of physicians and expert healthcare professionals from various medical specialties. One thing we all have in common is a strong desire to treat your condition and assist you in achieving whole-body health and wellness.

One aspect of this commitment is to use drugs and surgery as little as possible. While medications and surgical procedures have their place and time, we offer many treatment options that may help you avoid those extremes. We may recommend the following treatments depending on the type, severity, and cause of your peripheral neuropathy:

• Physical Therapy

• Innovative treatment, such as PRP(Platelet-rich plasma) therapy 

Suppose you have any of the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. In that case, getting it diagnosed and treated as soon as possible is critical because it may not be reversible once it reaches a certain point. 

For a comprehensive evaluation, call for an appointment or book a consultation.