Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects your peripheral nerves, which are responsible for transmitting information between your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. It can cause a wide range of symptoms that vary in severity.
Here at University Pain and Spine Center, we serve patients multiple locations in New York and New Jersey. If you’re experiencing any of the following telltale signs of peripheral neuropathy, our expert team of providers can provide you with accurate diagnosis and the right treatment for your unique needs.
Here are some common symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy:
Numbness or tingling sensations
One of the most common signs of peripheral neuropathy is a feeling of numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or other areas of your body. The sensation may be described as pins and needles, a burning feeling, or a loss of feeling altogether.
Muscle weakness
Peripheral neuropathy can lead to muscle weakness, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. The issue may be more noticeable in your arms and legs, resulting in instability or difficulty with coordination.
Sharp or shooting pain
Some individuals with peripheral neuropathy experience sharp or shooting pain that can be severe and debilitating. Your pain might be localized or radiate along the affected nerves, causing discomfort in different parts of your body.
Loss of balance
Damage to the peripheral nerves can affect your ability to sense your body’s position and balance. This can lead to instability, frequent falls, and difficulty maintaining balance while walking or standing.
Sensitivity to touch
Many people with peripheral neuropathy find that they are overly sensitive to touch. Even light pressure or clothing brushing against your skin can cause discomfort or pain.
Changes in temperature sensation
Peripheral neuropathy can disrupt your body’s ability to regulate temperature, causing you to experience sensations of extreme cold or heat in the affected areas.
Digestive issues
Peripheral neuropathy can affect the nerves that control your digestive system, leading to problems like nausea, vomiting, bloating, or diarrhea.
Loss of reflexes
Peripheral neuropathy can cause your reflexes to diminish or be absent. Tendon reflexes, such as the knee-jerk reflex, may be noticeably reduced or nonresponsive.
Foot problems
Peripheral neuropathy often affects your feet first, leading to foot problems like ulcers, infections, or deformities. Decreased sensations in your feet can make it difficult to detect injuries or sores, increasing your risk of developing complications.
Sleep disturbances
You can experience sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns, due to pain or discomfort.
Keep in mind that experiencing one or more of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean you have peripheral neuropathy. Many of them can also be attributed to other conditions. That’s why seeking professional medical advice and an accurate diagnosis is important.
If you’re diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, we offer various treatment options, including medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing peripheral neuropathy and preventing further complications, so call our friendly administrative staff today or book online any time.