Also known as nerve pain, peripheral neuropathy develops as a result of nerve damage. Often leaving patients feeling weak, numb, and in pain, peripheral neuropathy results from conditions such as traumatic injuries, infections, exposure to toxins, and metabolic problems. The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes.
The peripheral nervous system in the body is responsible for sending information from the brain and spinal cord to other parts of the body. When nerve damage occurs, the sensory nerves (i.e. sensations such as heat, pain, or touch), motor nerves (muscle movement), and autonomic nerves (blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, and bladder function) can be affected.
People who experience peripheral neuropathy may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Numbness/tingling in the feet or hands
- Burning pain
- Skin, hair, and/or nail changes
- Reduced coordination
- Muscle weakness
- Heat intolerance
- Bowel/bladder problems
- Changes in blood pressure
If you or someone you know has any of the provided symptoms, contact the specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center today for a thorough evaluation.