Neuropathy is not a single disease – instead, it is a complication found in a number of different underlying medical conditions. The term neuropathy is short for peripheral neuropathy, meaning nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system. Only nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord are involved. When the nerves are damaged, they don’t function properly. People with peripheral neuropathy have decreased or abnormal sensation in their toes and fingers. Sometimes, they develop problems moving these parts of the body as well.
In the United States, the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes. According to the American Diabetes Association, 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes will develop neuropathy within their lifetime.
Other causes of peripheral neuropathy include:
Certain medications, including some chemotherapy drugs.
Heredity. Some people have a family history of peripheral neuropathy.
Advanced age. Peripheral neuropathy is more common as people age.
Arthritis. Certain type of arthritis can cause peripheral neuropathy.
Alcoholism. According to the US National Library of Medicine, up to half of all long-term heavy alcohol users develop peripheral neuropathy.
Neurological disorders. Certain neurological disorders, including spina bifida and fibromyalgia, are associated with peripheral neuropathy.
Injury. Acute injury to the peripheral nerves may also cause peripheral neuropathy.
Treatment of Neuropathy.
Since in most cases it is a result of an orgnaic disease, medical assessment is necessary. However, depending upon the cause there still is significant benefit with nutrition, lasers, and acupuncture. This is one of the reasons we obtained our Class IV laser.