Neuropathy Specialist

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a medical condition that causes damage to your peripheral nerves. These nerves branch off from your brain and spinal cord, which are part of your central nervous system (CNS). The peripheral nerves provide sensation and relay messages from your CNS to other areas in your body.

Peripheral neuropathy affects any area in the body other than the brain or spinal cord. With this condition, there’s either a problem with nerve signals or inappropriate signals to areas like your hands and legs. Some other metabolic conditions, such as diabetes, can also cause neuropathy. Collectively, these conditions can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

There are over 100 forms of peripheral neuropathy, each with its specific symptoms. Each type of neuropathy presents differently, but common signs of this problem include:

• Increased pain or trouble feeling pain
• Sensitivity to heat or cold
• Burning, shooting, or stabbing pain
• Loss of coordination 
• Pins and needles feeling
• Muscle cramps
• Decreased sensation to touch

Motor, sensory, and autonomic neuropathy are the three main categories of this condition. Each one of these forms has particular symptoms that allow the practice to narrow down the problem causing your neuropathy.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

The practice diagnoses neuropathy using several tools and assessments. The Center for Pain & Rehabilitation Medicine team takes the time to listen to and understand your symptoms to diagnose the disorder properly.

The team takes a detailed history of your symptoms and performs a physical exam to diagnose neuropathy. Unique blood work with an in-depth analysis of the potential markers causing neuropathy, a neurologic exam, and additional testing, such as nerve conduction studies and electromyogram (NCV/EMG) studies, are also helpful in diagnosing this condition.

Imaging tests, like an MRI, help detect pinched nerves or other mechanical causes of neuropathy. The practice also uses nerve conduction studies to find problems in your motor or sensory nerves.

Can neuropathy be treated?

The practice provides a wide range of treatments for neuropathy, often using medications to prevent pain associated with the condition. This includes antidepressants and anti-seizure medications, in addition to topical management of a cocktail of compounded medications. Dr. Jadali’s experience as a pharmacist is a valuable asset in this field.

Osteopathic Manipulative Therapies (OMT), Physical therapy (PT) and occupational therapy (OT) are also helpful in coping with peripheral neuropathy. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS, therapy, Anodyne light therapies are also used in conjunction with PT and OT to provide pain relief.

In-depth and extensive analyses of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and certain amino acids are also extremely helpful in managing and improving neuropathies.

Alternative therapies and lifestyle changes also make a big difference when treating neuropathy. These include a healthy diet, exercise, and acupuncture or massage therapy. The practice provides personalized treatment plans specific to your symptoms.

To schedule an appointment with the Center for Pain & Rehabilitation Medicine, call today or send a message on the website.