It has been estimated that over 20 million people in the United States experience some form of peripheral neuropathy (PN). This is a condition that develops as a result of damage to the peripheral nervous system, which greatly reduces the relaying of messages to and from the brain to other parts of the body. Those who have peripheral neuropathy report having burning, tingling and numbing sensations in their hands and feet.
What’s the Difference between Numbness and Tingling?
Most of us have experienced some type of numbness or tingling sensation on our skin at some point in our lives. They are both common sensations – for example, when you sleep wrong on your arm and it “falls asleep,” causing the feeling of pins and needles pricking at the skin. In most cases, numbness and tingling sensations are not serious or life threatening.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to See a Doctor if you are Experiencing Neuropathy Symptoms
While there are many people who seek medical advice or treatment as soon as they suspect that something is wrong, there are also many others who find themselves putting off calling the doctor for as long as possible. For some reason, there are some who just do not feel the urgency to seek help until they are sure for themselves that things are really serious.
Is Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Different?
Of all causes of peripheral neuropathy, perhaps the most unfortunate is chemotherapy. While researchers and doctors continue to explore the best possible treatments for cancer, some of the most effective treatments available today often come with harsh side effects. Such is the case with chemotherapy, a strategy that is successful at killing cancer cells, but also has a major impact on the nerves in the body. When communication between the spinal cord and muscles and skin via nerves begins to shut down, you are left with peripheral neuropathy.
Will Compression Garments Help with Peripheral Neuropathy
The weakness, numbness, tingling and discomfort caused by peripheral neuropathy can be irritating and painful. There are a variety of treatment options and remedies available, and many of our patients come to us having tried many of them, but still seek relief from this frustrating nerve disorder. One question we get asked quite often is, “Will compression garments help with peripheral neuropathy?” While we have heard of this method working for some people and not for others, here is a bit of information that might be helpful for you.
Are You Using Pain Medication Safely?
Sometimes, with OsteoArthritis of the Knee or Peripheral Neuropathy, the use of pain medication is unavoidable. We understand that some patients experience tremendous amounts of pain each and every day, and sometimes treatment programs will need to be supplemented with prescription medication. It’s very important to us that each of our patients knows how to use that medication safely.
Insurance Coverage: Knee Replacement or Treatment?
Living with knee pain can sometimes feel unbearable. Whether it stems from an old injury or is caused by wear and tear as you get older, it’s debilitating and downright annoying at times! There’s nothing worse than feeling that you can’t get around like you did before your knee pain started. [Read more…]
Massages for Peripheral Neuropathy?
Among the many different treatments and therapies for peripheral neuropathy, many who suffer from this condition have turned to massage for help in managing the symptoms. Because peripheral neuropathy is caused by damage to nerve endings in the hands and feet, a massage is thought to help stimulate those nerve endings. [Read more…]