Some Good Advice About Neuropathy

Today's post from kiich.sharedby.co (see link below) is very useful and well-written information about neuropathy from a physical therapist, responding to discussions with one of his patients. His advice is spot on and the information he provides can be understood by everybody (in contrast to many neuropathy information sites). From someone new to neuropathy, to experienced patients who have suffered for years, a few minutes reading this will not be time wasted.

Are you suffering from peripheral neuropathy?
By Bob Cairo Special to the Coastal Point Date Published: March 20, 2015

A few weeks ago, a patient told me he wanted me to write an article about diabetic neuropathy. As I was thinking about it, it occurred to me that there are so many kinds of peripheral neuropathy that I wanted to make sure I help all of you who are struggling with it or might be soon.

It’s complicated, it’s painful and it can change your life in dramatic ways. Are you experiencing sharp or stabbing pain in your knees and ankles? Do your calves ache or are your feet numb? Do your legs feel like they are on fire?

Pain in our lower extremities is a very common issue, especially as we age. But, if you haven’t taken a fall, twisted a knee or done something that would easily identify exactly what’s causing your problem, you may be suffering from peripheral neuropathy. Understanding what it is and what you need to do if you or a loved one is diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy could have a lifelong impact on mobility and quality of life.

We all understand that our nervous system controls the proper function of every system in our bodies. The peripheral nervous system involves the nerves that lead from our brain and spinal cord to the rest of our body. When one of these nerves becomes diseased or damaged from a trauma or even repetitive stress, it’s called peripheral neuropathy.

Some 2 to 3 million Americans are struggling with a type of peripheral neuropathy. This is a problem that doesn’t discriminate in gender or age, but it’s particularly common in people older than 55. If you are a diabetic and you aren’t doing all that you should to control it, you are a high-risk candidate.

Because there are so many potential problems, I’m going to focus on the lower extremities, because that is one of the most common areas of impact.

It’s tricky to diagnose peripheral neuropathy, because there are so many potential causes, and doctors will tell you that not all the causes are known. We know that more than 50 percent of diabetics experience at least one type of neuropathy, and feet and legs are one of the biggest areas of impact.

We also know that some viruses and bacteria will attack the nerves. We know that alcoholism, vitamin deficiencies, traumas, some autoimmune diseases, infections and even tumors, whether benign or malignant, can be among the many potential causes.

People who are afflicted with a peripheral neuropathy in their lower extremities often talk about burning and sharp or stabbing pain. In many cases, there’s a tingling sensation. Sometimes, numbness and tingling comes on gradually in the feet and will spread to the legs.

Many people talk about the terrible discomfort associated with a simple touch, and some people lose feeling all together. Others lose coordination and start having a problem with falling, as a result. Muscle weakness is another potential symptom.

If you start to experience pain, weakness, tingling or any of the symptoms we were just talking about in your legs, knees, calves, ankles or feet, see a doctor immediately. Waiting to get help can be a terrible, costly decision, because the sooner you are diagnosed and treatment begins, the better your chances of getting those symptoms under control and stopping any additional damage occurring.

It’s a good idea to prepare for your doctor’s appointment by remembering to bring a list of all your medications with you and include any vitamins and supplements you might be taking.

It often helps to write down your symptoms and make sure you include any problems you might be experiencing. A problem that might seem unrelated to a symptom you are experiencing could actually be directly related. I’m sure you’ve heard this before, but it’s always better to write down your questions and leave some blank space to write down information your doctor is giving you as it happens. It can be so hard to remember everything that is said later on.

I also suggest you bring someone with you. There’s something to that old saying that two heads are better than one. You might miss something that is said, and having a second listener can be very helpful to keep all that information straight.

You can expect that your doctor will conduct a thorough examination and will likely perform some tests to determine the cause of your problem. If it’s peripheral neuropathy, your doctor may refer you to a neurologist. Your doctor will be looking to determine the cause of your neuropathy, the type of nerve problems and what damage has already taken place.

Clearly, the type of treatment you receive depends on the problem that’s causing the neuropathy. In some cases, medications may help.

For problems such as muscle weakness, you will likely be sent to a physical therapist to help you expand your range of motion and build muscle strength. Your doctor may also ask your physical therapist to work with you on building an exercise program to help with pain management and, in the case of diabetes, to help control your blood sugar.

If you are diabetic, make sure you are checking your feet regularly for any signs of trouble and regularly monitor your blood glucose levels. Don’t be surprised if your doctor makes other recommendations about your diet and suggests some actions you take at home to manage your peripheral neuropathy.

One final thought: If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, make it your job to learn everything you can about your particular condition. It’s important to be an active participant in your care plan. You want to be armed with the information you need to make informed decisions about your treatment as you work with your care team of professionals to get the best possible outcome.

Bob Cairo is a licensed physical therapist at Tidewater Physical Therapy. He can be reached by calling (302) 537-7260. 

http://kiich.sharedby.co/de4d996b4c7488eb/?web=9dbef0&dst=http%3A//www.coastalpoint.com/content/are_you_suffering_peripheral_neuropathy_03_20_2015