Neuropathy – commonly referred to as Peripheral Neuropathy – is a medical condition caused by damaged or destroyed nerves. This damage most often occurs in the hands and feet (but can occur in other parts of the body) and results in pain, weakness, tingling, numbness, and many other issues.
Due to the variety of ways in which symptoms of Neuropathy can manifest, diagnosis can be difficult. Once diagnosed, treatments exist for almost every type of Neuropathy. According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 20 million Americans live with Neuropathy every day. You are not alone!
Billions of nerves work to carry messages from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Considering all of the work our nerves do, it’s no wonder that they can be damaged over time. Neuropathies can also be traced to hereditary causes, but these types are less common. Still, there are some forms of neuropathy whose cause is unknown. Around 33% of all neuropathy cases are classified without a known cause.
When a single nerve or nerve group is damaged or otherwise affected, this in known as mononeuropathy. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most widely known examples of this type of neuropathy. While any body part can be affected by mononeuropathy, the symptoms tend to include loss of mobility, loss of sensation, decreased range of motion, and pain.
When multiple nerves or nerve groups are damaged or otherwise affected, this is known as polyneuropathy. Out of the more than 100 types of neuropathy, this is the most common type. Additionally most types of polyneuropathies develop over many months. Some people live with neuropathy for years and don’t take action due to the gradual onset.
Anyone can develop Neuropathy. As you get older, chances of getting Neuropathy increase and more men than women develop Neuropathy. Lifestyle factors play a big role in whether or not Neuropathy develops. Repetitive motions common among laborers and office workers can lead to Neuropathic issues. Diet, environment, and medical history all contribute to the development of Neuropathies Because nerves can be damaged in many different ways, it’s important to be aware of the most common causes of Neuropathy. They include:
Your body is an interconnected system. Often what affects one part of the body causes a chain reaction that affects different parts of the body. Because of this, symptoms of Neuropathy can range widely. There are three basic categories into which symptoms can be divided: Sensory (experience sensation), Motor (move muscles), and Autonomic (bodily functions).
Early diagnosis is the best way to ensure you’re doing everything you can to address your neuropathy. If you notice numbness, weakness, tingling or pain in your hands or feet, consult a physician immediately. The longer symptoms persist the greater risk for further nerve damage.
Dr. Jennifer Miller at Health Expressions in Rockville, Maryland, has diagnosed and treated hundreds of patients for Neuropathy. She knows that no two people are alike and tailors treatment specifically for each individual. Using a combination of natural healing techniques and cutting-edge technology, Dr. Miller is an expert on not just treating symptoms, but relieving the underlying causes.
Hear what Dr. Miller’s Neuropathy patients have to say about their experience, see their before and after pictures, and watch their video testimonials in our Gallery of Success.
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