What is Peripheral Neuropathy and How does it affect your body?

November 12, 2024

Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body. Damage to these nerves can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and other debilitating symptoms, severely impacting an individual’s quality of life.

Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy vary depending on the nerve affected (sensory, motor, or autonomic) type and the extent of nerve damage. Common symptoms include:

Pain: Often described as burning sensations, stabbing pain, or cramps in affected areas.
Loss of Sensation: Numbness and an inability to feel touch, increasing the risk of injury.
Tingling or “Pins and Needles”: A common sensation in the hands or feet.
Muscle Weakness: Can make activities like walking or lifting objects challenging.
Balance and Coordination Problems: Can lead to frequent falls due to poor motor control.
Autonomic Dysfunction: Nerve damage can affect body functions such as blood pressure, digestion, and sweating.

Common Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

Several factors can lead to peripheral neuropathy, and identifying the root cause is crucial for effective treatment. Common causes include:

Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage peripheral nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy.
Infections: Viruses like herpes, HIV, and hepatitis can directly damage nerves.
Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can trigger the immune system to attack nerve tissues.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like vitamins B12, B6, and E can contribute to nerve damage.
Toxin Exposure: Chemicals, alcohol, and certain medications can harm nerves.
Trauma or Injuries: Nerve compression injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can cause neuropathic symptoms.

How Peripheral Neuropathy affects daily life

Peripheral neuropathy can significantly limit daily activities, such as walking, dressing, and using hands. This loss of independence often leads to emotional challenges like depression and anxiety. The constant pain and discomfort may also interfere with sleep, creating a vicious cycle that worsens symptoms.

Additionally, balance and coordination issues can make individuals fearful of falling, leading to reduced participation in social and recreational activities, and potentially causing social isolation.

Natural Treatments and Alternative Therapies for Peripheral Neuropathy

While there’s no cure for peripheral neuropathy, several natural treatments and therapies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These options offer relief without the side effects associated with traditional medications.

Nutritional Supplements: Supplements such as B12, B6, and alpha-lipoic acid are vital for nerve health. These can reduce inflammation, support nerve regeneration, and improve nerve function. Magnesium and turmeric also provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
ReBuilder Device: The ReBuilder is a specialized device that emits low-voltage electrical signals to stimulate nerve function, promote regeneration, and reduce pain, helping restore sensation and mobility.
Acupuncture: This ancient practice may help improve circulation, relieve pain, and enhance nerve function through the stimulation of specific acupuncture points.
Moderate Physical Exercise: Activities such as yoga, tai chi, or light aerobic exercises help strengthen muscles, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility, contributing to pain reduction and better balance.
Therapeutic Massage and Physical Therapy: Therapeutic massage can relieve muscle tension and improve circulation, while physical therapy focuses on strengthening affected muscles and improving coordination.

Conclusion

Peripheral Neuropathy is a challenging condition that can severely impact an individual’s quality of life. However, with the right treatment and management strategies, including natural treatments, nutritional supplements, and devices like the ReBuilder, it’s possible to alleviate symptoms and regain a sense of control over daily life. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for managing peripheral neuropathy.

References

American Diabetes Association. “Peripheral Neuropathy.” ADA (2024).
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. “Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet.” NINDS (2024).
Mayo Clinic. “Peripheral Neuropathy.” Mayo Clinic (2024).
Harati, Y. “Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathies.” Annals of Internal Medicine, vol. 124, no. 1, 1996, pp. 113-122.