What Are the Most Common Causes of Neuropathy?
Neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves, can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in various parts of the body. Our team at aCELLerated Interventional Orthopedics, led by Dr. Brian K. Rich, offers effective treatment options, such as peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), to manage neuropathy pain.
Dr. Rich's expertise in this advanced therapy ensures that patients receive the highest level of care, with a focus on addressing the underlying causes of neuropathy pain and improving overall quality of life.
Learn more about common causes of neuropathy and how peripheral nerve stimulation can help improve your pain.
Diabetes
Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can damage nerve fibers, leading to diabetic neuropathy, which typically starts in the feet and legs before affecting other parts of the body.
Nutrient deficiencies
A lack of essential vitamins, especially B vitamins, can contribute to the development of neuropathy. These vitamins play a crucial role in nerve health and function, and their deficiency can lead to nerve damage and associated symptoms.
Autoimmune diseases
Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome are autoimmune conditions that can cause inflammation that damages nerves and leads to neuropathy. In such cases, managing the underlying autoimmune condition is essential for treating neuropathy.
Infections
Certain viral and bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease, shingles, and hepatitis C, can result in neuropathy. These infections can directly attack nerve tissue or trigger immune system responses that cause nerve damage.
Chronic excess alcohol consumption
Drinking too much alcohol over a long period of time can lead to neuropathy due to direct neurotoxic effects and nutritional deficiencies. Alcohol-related neuropathy often causes other symptoms such as sensory disturbances, muscle weakness, and balance issues.
Chemotherapy and medications
Some medications, particularly chemotherapy drugs, can cause neuropathy as a side effect. If you suspect that a medication is causing neuropathy, consult with your health care provider to discuss alternative treatment options.
Peripheral nerve stimulation for neuropathy pain relief
PNS is an innovative and minimally invasive treatment option for managing neuropathy pain. This advanced therapy involves the use of small electrodes which are implanted near the affected nerves to deliver mild electrical impulses.
These electrical pulses can modulate nerve activity, helping to reduce pain and improve functionality for patients with neuropathy.
The benefits of peripheral nerve stimulation
PNS offers several advantages for patients with neuropathy, particularly those who have not found relief through conventional treatments like medications or physical therapy. Some of the key benefits of PNS include:
It gives targeted pain relief
PNS directly targets the specific nerves responsible for the pain, providing focused relief without affecting other areas of the body.
It is a customizable treatment
The electrical stimulation parameters can be adjusted to suit your individual needs, allowing for a personalized approach to pain management.It’s minimally invasive
PNS is a minimally invasive procedure, typically performed under local anesthesia or with mild sedation. This reduces the risks and recovery time associated with more invasive surgical interventions.
It is reversible and adjustable
If the treatment does not provide satisfactory results, the electrodes can be removed, and the procedure is entirely reversible. Additionally, the stimulation settings can be adjusted over time to maintain optimal pain relief as your condition evolves.
At aCELLerated Interventional Orthopedics, Dr. Rich and his team are committed to providing cutting-edge treatments, like peripheral nerve stimulation, for patients with neuropathy.
If you're living with neuropathy pain and have not found relief through traditional treatment methods, peripheral nerve stimulation may be a viable option for you.
Call us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rich. We have clinics in Decatur and Witchita Falls, TX. At your visit, you can learn more about how PNS can help you manage your neuropathy pain and take back control of your life.