Also simply known as neuropathy, peripheral neuropathy is an umbrella term for a variety of different conditions that affect and/or damage the peripheral nerves. Peripheral nerves are nerves located outside the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). They comprise the peripheral nervous system, which is responsible for relaying sensory signals to the brain, carrying impulses that trigger muscle movements, and delivering information that is used to control essential unconscious processes, including breathing, sweating, digestion, and bladder function.

Peripheral neuropathy can affect a single nerve (known as mononeuropathy), but in many cases, it affects multiple nerves in different areas of the body (known as polyneuropathy). The symptoms of neuropathy often include pain, numbness, tingling sensations, and/or weakness, but can vary widely depending on the location and type of peripheral nerve(s) impacted.

Peripheral nerves are divided into the following 3 categories:

• Sensory Nerves – Sensory nerves receive sensations related to temperature, pain, proprioception, pressure, vibration, and more. Damage to sensory nerves may result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity to touch.
• Motor Nerves – Motor nerves control muscle movements. Damage to motor nerves may result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, lack of coordination, and even paralysis in severe cases.
• Autonomic Nerves – Autonomic nerves help to regulate involuntary functions. Damage to autonomic nerves may result in symptoms that impact blood pressure levels, digestion, heart rate, bladder control, and more.

Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary from patient to patient depending on the type of nerves affected and their location in the body. At Resolve Pain and Spine, some of the symptoms we commonly encounter include:

• Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain
• Pain during movements/activities that aren’t normally painful
• Sensitivity to pressure/touch
• Numbness, weakness, or tingling in affected areas
• A sensation of wearing gloves or socks, even when not
• Heat intolerance and/or freezing or burning sensations
• Excessive sweating or the inability to sweat
• Lack of coordination
• Abnormalities in heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, bladder/bowel control, and/or other involuntary functions

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a broad range of injuries, conditions, and diseases that impact the peripheral nerves. Some of the most common include:

• Traumatic injury (including to the spinal cord)
• Diabetes
• Autoimmune diseases
• Metabolic issues
• Alcoholism
• Exposure to toxins
• Infection
• Genetic disorders
• Herniated/bulging disc
• Spinal stenosis
• Sciatica

Peripheral neuropathy can also develop without a clear cause, known as idiopathic neuropathy. At Resolve Pain, we are dedicated to helping our patients uncover the hidden causes of chronic pain. We possess the experience and expertise to identify and treat the root of the problem, as well as the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Contact us today to learn more!

Diagnosis And Treatment

Because peripheral neuropathy can stem from many different causes, the diagnostic process might involve several steps, depending on the circumstances. In addition to gathering a thorough medical history and performing an in-depth physical assessment, including a neurological examination, other diagnostic procedures performed at Resolve Pain may also include imaging tests (MRI, CT scan), blood tests, and/or nerve function tests.

The type of treatment recommended for peripheral neuropathy depends on a variety of factors and the customized treatment plan your Resolve doctor develops for you may include a combination of complementary therapies that target symptoms as well as their underlying causes. Some of the treatment options our specialists may recommend include:

• Non-opioid pain management
• Spinal cord and/or peripheral nerve stimulation (neuromodulation)
• Acupuncture
• Nerve blocks and other injection treatments
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Stem cell therapy

To learn more and receive a personalized treatment plan, schedule an initial consultation at Resolve Pain today!

Why Choose Resolve Pain And Spine?

Resolve Pain and Spine is a state-of-the-art clinic that takes a big-picture approach to pain management and resolution. Drawing on functional, regenerative, and integrative therapies as well as interventional techniques, we are committed to discovering the underlying causes of chronic pain and helping our patients regain the highest quality of life.

Our experienced pain management doctors specialize in working with patients experiencing neuropathy symptoms for a wide variety of different reasons. When you join the Resolve family, you can trust that we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that will allow you to move forward in life with renewed energy and confidence.

Schedule An Appointment Today!

Don’t let neuropathy pain hold you back a moment longer. Instead, discover which complementary therapies will help you eliminate discomfort and regain the pain-free lifestyle you dream of! The team at Resolve Pain is ready to help. Contact our West Orange or Brick location to learn more and book an appointment today!