Neurological conditions can be confusing and symptoms often are hard to describe. That is why it is important to have a doctor you can trust to diagnose and treat your condition. The specially trained physicians at NewSouth Neurospine, Mississippi’s Spine Center, make a point to help you understand your condition.
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that occurs when there is damage to the nerves in your arms or legs. The peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves, which transmits information from your skin, joints, muscles, etc. to your brain.
What Are The Symptoms?
Early signs of neuropathy include tingling, numbness, or pins and needles sensation in the feet, which can then move to involve your calves. As the neuropathy progresses, muscle weakness as well as loss of balance can also occur. Burning and stinging pain can sometimes be significant and affect your quality of life. Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the United States. However, there are many other potential causes of neuropathy including several inflammatory diseases and vitamin deficiencies.
The diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy is usually made with a history, physical examination, as well as EMG and nerve conduction studies. EMG and nerve conduction studies test the function of your nerves to determine if they are healthy.
How Is Peripheral Neuropathy Treated?
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy can include the use of medications for nerve pain such as gabapentin. If there is a primary underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy such as a vitamin deficiency, treatment of the underlying problem itself can often result in improvement.
It is important to not ignore symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Our specially trained physicians are ready to listen to you and design a specific treatment plan for you. Make an appointment at NewSouth NeuroSpine today.
