Understanding Nerve Pain
Neuropathy Treatment
If your arms or legs feel tingly or numb, you may be one of 30 million Americans who have neuropathy. If you suffer from chronic pain, strange sensations, or limb weakness, pain expert Dan DuBose, MD, and his team can evaluate you for neuropathy and customize a treatment plan at D3 Pain Management in Willow Park, Texas.
Reduce your pain and limit nerve damage by calling the friendly office staff or using the online booking tool.
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy, also called peripheral neuropathy, is nerve damage that affects your peripheral nervous system. Your peripheral nervous system is the network of nerves that run from your spinal cord throughout your trunk, organs, and limbs. Your peripheral nervous system connects to your central nervous system, which is located in your spinal cord and brain.
If you have neuropathy, your peripheral nerves no longer work the way they’re supposed to. They may not be able to carry signals from the brain to your limbs, for instance, which could affect your movements and strength. They may also continually emit pain signals from your body to your brain.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
Your symptoms vary depending on which of your nerves are damaged.
Typical symptoms include:
- Throbbing or stabbing pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Weak legs, feet, arms, or hands
- Extreme sensitivity to touch
- Paralysis
- Sweating
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Digestive, bowel, or bladder problems
Most people who have neuropathy have more than one type, a condition known as polyneuropathy. You could have neuropathies that affect your peripheral nerves (eg, tingling, numbness) and your autonomic system nerves (eg, sweating, dizziness).
Why do I have neuropathy?
Neuropathy can result from a variety of underlying conditions that affect the nerves. Identifying the cause is important in determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
You’re more likely to develop neuropathy if you also have:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- HIV
- Cancer that’s treated with chemotherapy
- Metabolic syndrome
- Hypothyroidism
About 60% of women and men with diabetes develop neuropathy, especially in their feet. If you have diabetes, contact the experts at D3 Pain Management right away if you develop neuropathy symptoms. Untreated neuropathy could lead to dire complications, including gangrene and limb amputation.
You could also develop neuropathy if your profession or hobby requires repetitive movements, such as playing the violin or painting. Women and men who are obese, drink alcohol excessively, or have been in an accident may develop neuropathy. Even a vitamin deficiency could lead to neuropathy.
How do doctors treat neuropathy?
At D3 Pain Management, treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s condition and symptoms. The goal is to reduce nerve-related pain, improve function, and support daily comfort.
Your D3 Pain Management doctor first examines you and orders screenings, such as nerve function and blood tests. If he diagnoses neuropathy, he may recommend treatments that include:
- Pain relievers
- Anti-seizure medications
- Antidepressants
- Nerve blocks
- Radiofrequency nerve ablation
- Spinal cord stimulation
Related Conditions We Treat
Neuropathy is often connected to other conditions involving the spine and nerves. Exploring related conditions can help you better understand your symptoms and available treatment options.
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