Peripheral Neuropathy

The peripheral nerve system is a large network of nerves, branching out from the brain and the spinal cord.

Man with his shoe off, grabbing his foot with both hands

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

This nerve network acts as the communication channel between the central nervous system and all areas of the body. Neuropathy is a medical term that means disease or dysfunction affecting the peripheral nervous system. This system carries the signals that make it possible to move your body, as well as ensure the automatic body systems such as heartbeat and breathing are functioning. The central nervous system has just two parts: the brain and the spinal cord. The peripheral nerve system is all of the rest of the nerves in the human body. The Atlas Institute proudly offers its patients treatments for peripheral neuropathy in Denver.

Types of Peripheral Neuropathy

Motor neuropathy: The nerves that control muscles and body movement can be affected by nerve damage or dysfunction. In motor neuropathy, the ability to control the body is affected.

Sensory neuropathy: This type of neuropathy affects sensation such as pain, temperature, or pressure.
Autonomic nerve neuropathy: This form of neuropathy affects the nerves that control the natural, automatic processes of the body, including breathing and heartbeat.

What is the Cause of Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy can come about due to many different causes. With over 100 types of peripheral neuropathy, the causes can range from a health condition, to trauma, to an inherited condition, vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or a side effect of surgery, among others.

What are the Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy?

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can range widely, from an annoying tingling sensation to paralysis. Some of the most common symptoms of the condition include:

Numbness
Tingling sensation
Lack of sensation
Shooting pains
Loss of balance, dizziness
Inability to feel heat or cold normally
Excessive sweating, or lack of sweating
Trouble swallowing
Cramps
Muscle twitching
Aching, pain
Migraines

Treating Peripheral Neuropathy, What are the Options?

The treatments for peripheral neuropathy will reflect the extent and severity of the symptoms. The Atlas Institute offers both surgical and non-surgical treatments for peripheral neuropathy, including:

Physical therapy
Ultrasound-guided injections
Anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid injections
Nerve repair surgery
Nerve graft surgery
Nerve implant surgery
Nerve freeing surgery
Exercises
Laser therapy
Braces, splints
Applications of heat and cold

Can Peripheral Neuropathy be Cured?

Many cases of peripheral neuropathy cause temporary discomfort or pain, which can be treated. Other more serious cases may not be curable but can be relieved. Every patient is different. The first step is an accurate diagnosis, after which a custom treatment plan will be developed, specifically for the individual case, whether the damage to the nerves is minor or severe. In all cases, an early diagnosis is vital, as it may be possible to halt further damage to the nerves.

Can peripheral Neuropathy be Prevented?

Like any health condition, you are less likely to develop this condition by following a healthy lifestyle. However, even the healthiest person can be involved in an accident and suffer peripheral neuropathy. Some have suffered peripheral neuropathy after a virus, Lyme disease, shingles, or other viral or bacterial infections. Some of the more common ways peripheral neuropathy can develop include:

Diabetes
Overuse of alcohol
Injuries
Accidents
Exposure to toxic chemicals
Lack of exercise
Obesity
Unhealthy blood sugar levels

Why Choose The Atlas Institute?

The Atlas Institute is a state-of-the-art nerve center in Denver, offering world-class diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. The center delivers surgical and non-surgical solutions for nerve pain or dysfunction and is focused on achieving results, and helping patients live free from pain or dysfunction. The team at the center is among the most talented, focused, and experienced in treating peripheral neuropathy in Denver.