PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
Are you struggling with peripheral neuropathy in Columbia MD or Towson MD? Neuropathy is defined as a group of disorders that begins due to damage of the nerves in your upper and/or lower limbs. Generally, neuropathy creates pain, numbness and tingling in the extremities (hands and feet). There are several different causes of this condition, including:
- Diabetes
- Traumatic injury
- Infection
- Metabolic Disorders
- Toxins, and many other causes.
TYPES OF NEUROPATHY
Peripheral neuropathy often creates painful sensations described as tingling, burning, stabbing and numbing. It is common to see the condition correlating with several life factors, such as poor nutrition, trauma or pressure on the nerves.
According to the Neuropathy Association, more than 20 million Americans are suffering from a form of neuropathy. Of those 20 million Americans suffering from neuropathy, a vast majority of those people have this condition due to a form of diabetes.
There are over 100 different types of neuropathy, however, neuropathy affecting the extremities like the arms, wrists, hands, legs, ankles and feet, is the most common.
WHO CAN DEVELOP NEUROPATHY?
Neuropathy can affect all people of all ages in Columbia or Towson. It is more commonly found in men and those who have jobs consisting of a lot repetitive movements. There are several risk factors ranging from lifestyle choices, behaviors and conditions. As previously stated, those who have poor nutrition are likely to develop Type II Diabetes which will cause neuropathy. If a person suffers from alcoholism or has a vitamin deficiency, they are likely to develop a form of neuropathy. Also, if a person has kidney disease, liver disease or a thyroid disorder they are more susceptible to developing neuropathy.
DIAGNOSIS OF NEUROPATHY
This condition is generally not a simple diagnosis to make. It is difficult because it is not often that it is a disease present alone rather a symptom of an underlying disease. There is a process that occurs before the diagnosis is made. The process may consist of:
- Full medical history
- Physical exam
- Neurological exam
- Tendon reflexes
- Muscular strength
- Sensory tests
- Postural analysis
- Coordination analysis
- Blood tests
- Nerve conduction test
As always remember that if you have questions you can call the team at Atlas Family Chiropractic Center in Columbia or Towson for help.
