Neuropathy

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy, refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This condition disrupts normal nerve signaling and may result from diabetes, infections, injuries, or other underlying causes.

Symptoms of Neuropathy May Include:

• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
• Burning or sharp pain
• Muscle weakness
• Sensitivity to touch
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Difficulty with motor skills
• Changes in blood pressure or heart rate

Facts About Neuropathy

• More than 20 million Americans are estimated to have some form of peripheral neuropathy.
• Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy in the United States, particularly diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
• Neuropathy can affect people of all ages but is most common in older adults.

Who is at Risk for Neuropathy?

Risk factors for neuropathy may include:

• Genetics: Some inherited conditions, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, increase the risk.
• Sex: Men are slightly more likely to develop neuropathy.
• Age: The likelihood of neuropathy increases with age.
• Underlying Conditions: Diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and chronic kidney disease are common contributors.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins or certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs.
• Lifestyle Factors: Excessive alcohol use or poor nutritional habits.

Diagnosis & Management

Neuropathy is typically diagnosed through physical exams, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests. Identifying the underlying cause is critical to creating an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Neuropathy

Medical and Pharmaceutical Treatments

• Medications: Pain relievers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or topical treatments may help alleviate symptoms.
• Treating Underlying Causes: Managing conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases can slow or prevent nerve damage.
• Advanced Therapies: In some cases, nerve stimulation or plasma exchange may be used.

Lifestyle Interventions

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises can improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients supports nerve health.
• Avoiding Toxins: Reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding harmful substances.

Have You Been Diagnosed With Neuropathy?

At Clinical Investigation Specialists, Inc. (CIS Research), our mission is to advance medical care for adults through innovative clinical research. You may be an eligible candidate for a clinical trial researching treatment options for neuropathy. For more information on currently enrolling clinical trials, click here.

Resources

• Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

• Mayo Clinic - Peripheral Neuropathy

• Find A Study

• Learn More About Clinical Research