The NeuroMedical Center | Patient Education Library | Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that develops as a result of damage to the peripheral nervous system. These are the nerves that branch out from your brain and spinal cord and travel to all of the other parts of your body. 

 



Causes
This condition results from damage to your peripheral nerves. These nerves can be damaged by diabetes. They can be harmed by disorders of the kidneys, liver and thyroid. They can be damaged by infections and by traumatic injury. Alcoholism, toxins, vitamin deficiencies and other factors can also harm these nerves.


Symptoms
Because the peripheral nerves play a role in so many functions in your body,  peripheral neuralgia can cause a wide range of problems. When damaged, nerves are unable to communicate properly, which can result in symptoms such as:

  • Tingling and numbness – especially in the hands or feet

  • Sharp, jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain

  • Extreme sensitivity to touch

  • Lack or coordination/falling

  • Muscle weakness or paralysis

 

Because peripheral neuropathy is a progressive problem, it frequently starts with symptoms that are only moderately noticeable, but gradually increase and get worse over time.  That’s why early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for controlling your symptoms and preventing further damage to your peripheral nerves.


Treatment
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of your neuropathy.  The NeuroMedical Center offers a combined team of neurological experts who specialize in disorders of the peripheral nerves.  Our neurologists utilize an in-house Neurodiagnostic Lab (located on the 4th floor) to perform electrodiagnostic tests such as NCS or EMG to accurately diagnose your individual condition. Additionally, our neurosurgeons offer a variety of surgical options to remove compression from certain types of neuropathy (carpal tunnel and ulnar nerve) and repair damaged nerves.