Neuropathy refers to a condition where there's damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves, typically in the peripheral nervous system. These nerves are responsible for sending signals between the body and the brain and controlling motor and sensory functions.

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What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a disorder that occurs when our nerves, specifically those outside of our brain and spinal cord, start to malfunction. It's also referred to as peripheral neuropathy, as it commonly affects the peripheral nerves. These nerves are crucial for our wellbeing as they control our motor responses and sensory perceptions.

The complexity of neuropathy lies in its diversity. There are over 100 types of neuropathy, each with a unique set of symptoms and course of treatment. Some neuropathies affect just a single nerve, known as mononeuropathy, while others affect several nerves at various locations, known as polyneuropathy. Neuropathy can either be inherited or acquired. Inherited neuropathies are a result of genetic disorders, while acquired neuropathies can stem from various factors like injuries, infections, or exposure to certain toxins.

Debilitating Symptoms of Neuropathy include:

Numbness or tingling, especially in hands, feet, legs, fingers and toes: This is often one of the earliest symptoms. It can feel like pins and needles or a sensation of "electric shocks" in the affected area.
Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain in hands and feet: Neuropathic pain can be intense and may worsen at night. It can be constant or intermittent.
Sensitivity to touch: Some people with neuropathy experience increased sensitivity to touch, while others may have reduced sensation.
Muscle weakness or paralysis: Weakness in the affected area can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Dropping objects or not feeling the gas/brake pedals while driving are often reported by our patients suffering from Neuropathy.
Loss of coordination: Neuropathy can affect balance and coordination, leading to clumsiness or difficulty walking.
Changes in sensation: This can include feeling like you're wearing gloves or socks when you're not, or feeling like there's a lump or foreign object in your shoe.
Temperature sensitivity: Some people may have difficulty sensing temperature changes, leading to accidental burns or injuries.
Autonomic symptoms: These can include changes in blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, or bladder control. For example, you may experience dizziness upon standing, constipation or diarrhea, or difficulty emptying the bladder.
Changes in sweating: You might experience excessive sweating or a lack of sweating in affected areas.
Sexual dysfunction: Neuropathy can lead to decreased sensation and sexual function.

It's important to note that not everyone with neuropathy will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can vary greatly from person to person. Additionally, symptoms may develop gradually over time or appear suddenly.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or interfere with daily life, call today to schedule your exam with our Board Certified Dr. Brad Richardson for evaluation and appropriate management. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further nerve damage and improve quality of life.

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Common Causes of Neuropathy

Types of Neuropathy

There are various types of neuropathy, and they can be caused by different factors:

Diabetic neuropathy: This is the most common type of neuropathy, occurring in people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves throughout the body, often starting in the feet and legs.
Peripheral neuropathy: This affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system (the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord). It can be caused by a range of factors including physical injury, infections, metabolic problems, exposure to toxins, and autoimmune diseases.
Autonomic neuropathy: This affects the nerves that control involuntary bodily functions, such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and bladder function. It can be a complication of various diseases, including diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and certain infections.

Many patients are on medications, such as Gabapentin, Lyrica, or Cymbalta without any other type of therapy. These medications typically do not provide ultimate relief, and they only mask symptoms. Most importantly, they come with sometimes serious side effects.

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What alternate therapy is available for Neuropathy besides numbing medications?

At Summit Medical Care Center, Dr. Brad Richardson is Board Certified in Neuropathy and has been in practice over 27 years. He is seeing a 95% success rate treating patients suffering from Neuropathy.

As a patient, you will receive diagnostic testing your first visit to see what your neuropathy severity is, and if you’re a candidate for our non-invasive and drug-free treatments.

Here's how infrared therapy or red light therapy, or laser therapy, or a combination of these and other modalities at Summit Medical Care Center can potentially help:

Increased Blood Circulation: Infrared light penetrates into the tissues and promotes vasodilation, which widens blood vessels. This helps to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can improve oxygen and nutrient delivery to nerves, aiding in their repair and function.
Pain Relief: Infrared therapy has been shown to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. This can provide relief from neuropathic pain.
Reduction of Inflammation: Inflammation often accompanies neuropathy and contributes to nerve damage. Infrared therapy has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce swelling and inflammation around affected nerves.
Nerve Regeneration: Some research suggests that infrared therapy might promote nerve regeneration by stimulating the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) and other factors involved in nerve repair.
Relaxation: Infrared therapy can induce a sense of relaxation, which can be beneficial for individuals with neuropathy who may experience stress and tension.
Increased Cellular Energy: Infrared light can enhance cellular energy production (ATP synthesis) within nerve cells, aiding in their function and repair.
Accessibility: Infrared therapy devices are available for home use, making it convenient for individuals to incorporate into their treatment regimen

A study published in Photomedicine and Laser Surgery in 2017 found that infrared light therapy significantly improved peripheral neuropathy symptoms, including pain, numbness, and overall quality of life.

Reduce Pain By Up To 94%

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Neuropathy Patients

Chiropractic care offers a plethora of benefits for neuropathy patients. One of the main benefits is pain reduction. Through spinal adjustments, chiropractors can alleviate pressure on the nervous system, reducing pain and discomfort. Improved mobility is another benefit. Chiropractic care can help restore strength and coordination, which can be impaired in neuropathy patients.

But perhaps the most significant benefit of chiropractic care for neuropathy patients is its focus on overall wellness. Chiropractic care isn't just about treating symptoms; it's about enhancing overall health and wellbeing. Through nutritional advice, lifestyle recommendations, and stress-reducing techniques, chiropractic care can help neuropathy patients lead healthier lives.