Nerves that send messages to and from the brain and spinal cord throughout the rest of the body can become damaged. When this happens, it is known as peripheral neuropathy. One or more dermatomes can be affected when damage to peripheral nerves takes place. This affects the communication between the brain and affected areas within the body. Peripheral neuropathy can result in pain and impaired muscle movement. If you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy in Effingham, IL, consider chiropractic care at Rhodes to Health Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center.
Causes & Symptoms
Peripheral neuropathy can come about as a result of the following conditions:
- Diabetes
- Acquired neuropathies
- Alcoholism
- Vitamin deficiency or poor nutrition
- Rare inherited diseases
- Certain medications
- Thyroid or kidney disease
- Lyme disease, AIDS, or shingles
Signs and symptoms that may signal peripheral neuropathy include:
- Muscle weakness
- Burning, sharp, throbbing, or jabbing pain
- Falling and lack of coordination
- Sensitivity to touch
- Numbness, tingling, pricking in hands, feet, arms, and legs
- Paralysis when motor nerves are affected
When autonomic nerves are affected, symptoms may include:
- Bladder, digestive, or bowel issues
- Intolerance to heat
- Excessive sweating
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is highly effective in addressing peripheral neuropathy since it targets the root causes of the condition rather than numbing pain through prescription medication. Chiropractic care for peripheral neuropathy consists of:
- Increasing the flow of blood to the affected nerves
- Decreasing pain that originates from the brain
- Stimulating damaged nerves to decrease pain and improve balance
- Adjustments to promote nerve healing
Chiropractic care treats the body as a unified whole. All systems will be brought into alignment with the nervous system. You can count on a significant improvement in the way you feel and move following chiropractic care. You can also manage symptoms of peripheral neuropathy at home by:
- Avoiding falls – this may mean making use of a night light, a walking aid, or removing potential obstacles such as throw rugs
- Avoiding smoking
- Limiting alcohol
- Taking supplements such as alpha-lipoic acid
- Exercising regularly – simply walking can improve circulation and control weight. It can also help with maintaining your balance. Besides walking, strengthening exercises for your legs and back can also improve balance.
- In addition to Chiropractic care, our Class IV laser therapy is a successful addition to the treatment program for peripheral neuropathy.