What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that occurs due to damage to a nerve. There are varying types of neuropathy, depending on the location of the affected nerve: peripheral, proximal, autonomic, and focal. One of the most common types of neuropathy is peripheral, which affects the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, also known as the peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy can cause significant pain and other unpleasant symptoms that may require treatment. Our team of certified pain management specialists at Tricity Pain Associates offers various treatment options to effectively alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy. Contact one of our Texas pain management facilities to learn more and to schedule your initial consultation.

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Chemotherapy Neuropathy

Chemotherapy neuropathy is a type of peripheral neuropathy (injury to the nerves that give messages to and from the brain and spinal cord) that is due to the medications involved in chemotherapy. Patients undergoing chemotherapy who already suffer from peripheral neuropathy are at the greatest risk of developing this. Symptoms include numbness, pins and needles sensation, burning pain, and weakness. Any area of the body can be affected but the fingers and toes are the most common. Treatment includes protection of the area affected, use of B vitamins, physical therapy, TENS units, biofeedback, and medications such as analgesics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications.

Radiation Neuropathy

Radiation neuropathy is the development of peripheral neuropathy in patients who have undergone radiation therapy when the radiation causes damage to the peripheral nerves. Symptoms include numbness, pins and needles sensation, burning pain, and weakness. Treatment includes protection of the area affected, use of B vitamins, physical therapy, Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator (TENS) units, biofeedback, and medications such as analgesics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications.

Common Symptoms Of Neuropathy

A number of symptoms are associated with neuropathy, such as:

  • Increased sensitivity to touch
  • Numbness, pain, and tingling in the hands and feet
  • Weakness of the muscles
  • Throbbing, burning, or sharp pain during non-physical activities
  • Issues with motor function if the motor nerves have been affected
  • Loss of balance and coordination

The symptoms of neuropathy can vary from patient to patient and may be dependent on the type of neuropathy you suffer from.

Causes Of Neuropathy

There are a number of conditions that can lead to neuropathy, including diabetes, infectious diseases, tumors, autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders, tumors, and bone marrow disorders. Additional factors that could cause the development of neuropathy are alcoholism, certain medications, injury or pressure on the nerve, exposure to toxins, and a vitamin deficiency. You might also be at a higher risk of developing neuropathy if you have a family history of the condition.

In order to properly diagnose neuropathy, one of our skilled pain management specialists will take a complete medical history and conduct a comprehensive neurological evaluation. Additionally, a few tests or biopsies may be conducted, such as blood tests, imaging tests, or nerve biopsies, to help obtain an accurate diagnosis.

Treatments For Neuropathy

Treatment for neuropathy can differ between patients, but in most cases, less invasive forms of treatment will be recommended first. These could include medication, physical therapy, and alternative remedies, such as acupuncture or lifestyle changes. In more severe cases, other forms of treatment may be needed, including nerve stimulation, steroid injections, or a nerve block. The ideal course of treatment for you will be dependent on the type of neuropathy you suffer from along with what may be the cause of the condition. Our experienced team of pain management specialists will help you understand your options for treatment and provide the best course of action for your specific needs.

Receive Optiomal Treatment

Neuropathy causes a variety of unpleasant symptoms and can greatly affect your quality of life. At Tricity Pain Associates, we work to offer our patients suffering from this condition the best course of treatment possible. To learn more, contact one of our state-of-the-art Texas pain management facilities and schedule a consultation with one of our certified professionals.