Peripheral neuropathy is a medical condition that affects the nerves that carry information to and from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.
This condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, infections, traumatic injuries, and autoimmune diseases. Peripheral neuropathy can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness, which can be debilitating and affect a person’s quality of life.
Here at San Antonio Integrated Healthcare we provide the natural non-invasive treatments you need for relief, call us today to schedule a free consultation.
Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
There are many causes of peripheral neuropathy, including:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy.
- Infections: Some infections can damage nerves, including HIV, hepatitis C, and Lyme disease.
- Traumatic Injuries: Injuries that damage nerves, such as those caused by car accidents or sports injuries, can lead to peripheral neuropathy.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome can cause peripheral neuropathy.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins like B1, B6, and B12 can cause nerve damage.
- Exposure to Toxins: Exposure to chemicals like heavy metals and certain medications can damage nerves.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain: This can range from a mild tingling or burning sensation to severe, stabbing pain.
- Numbness: Some people with peripheral neuropathy may experience a loss of sensation in the affected area.
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation: This can be a persistent sensation that is similar to the feeling of having pins and needles in the affected area.
- Weakness: Muscles in the affected area may feel weak or even paralyzed.
- Changes in skin, hair, or nails: Some people with peripheral neuropathy may experience changes in their skin, hair, or nails, including dry skin, thinning hair, or brittle nails.
Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy
Treatment for peripheral neuropathy typically involves managing the underlying condition causing the nerve damage and managing the symptoms. This can include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and exercise regimen. However, these treatments may not always provide relief for all patients.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a newer treatment option for peripheral neuropathy that has shown promising results. PRP is a concentration of platelets and growth factors from a patient’s own blood that is injected into the affected area. The growth factors in PRP can stimulate nerve repair and regeneration, potentially reducing pain and improving sensation.
PRP injections are minimally invasive and can be done in an outpatient setting. Most patients require a series of injections over several weeks to see results. While PRP injections are generally safe, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and nerve damage at the injection site.
Peripheral neuropathy can be a debilitating condition that can greatly affect a person’s quality of life. While traditional treatments such as medications and physical therapy can help manage symptoms, PRP injections offer a promising new treatment option for those who have not found relief with other treatments.
As with any medical procedure, patients should discuss their options with a healthcare provider to determine if PRP injections are a viable option for their condition.
If you or a loved one are suffering from peripheral neuropathy in San Antonio and surrounding areas, call us today at (210) 341-5591 to schedule a free consultation.