Therapies can control painful peripheral neuropathies

By Dr. Pamela S. Cunningham
Pain Intervention Specialist

Painful Peripheral Neuropathies
   Our peripheral nervous system is made up of the nerves in our body that speak to our brain and spinal cord. This allows us to be aware of when our body comes in contact with the world around us.
  For example, if a person places a hand on a hot stove, the peripheral nerves alert the brain and spinal cord. The brain and spinal cord quickly process this information and tell the person to pull the hand back. This keeps us safe from the dangers in the world around us.    Unfortunately, peripheral nerves can become damaged, which leads to a condition called peripheral neuropathy. When this happens, pain often results. The pain caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system is usually described as a "burning" or "tingling" pain. Sometimes patients feel that their limbs are numb but painful at the same time. Painful peripheral neuropathies can affect only one nerve, or they can affect several nerves at the same time.    If only one nerve is affected, pain is felt only in one specific area of the body. Common examples of this are carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica. Oftentimes, several nerves are affected at the same time.
  One of the most common causes of painful peripheral neuropathies is diabetes. In the case of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, the pain is most severe in the feet, eventually extending up the legs and often affecting the hands.
  There are several reasons why people develop painful peripheral neuropathies. Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and low thyroid are common causes. Vascular causes include peripheral vascular disease, a condition in which a patient does not get sufficient blood flow to the limbs. Injuries, infections and exposure to hazardous material all can lead to painful peripheral neuropathies.
  In cases like this, several therapies are available to treat the pain and improve a patient's quality of life. Many medicines have been demonstrated to alleviate the pain of peripheral neuropathy. Also, methods such as bracing, physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery can be used to improve patients' symptoms.
  If a patient is suffering from a painful peripheral neuropathy, it is important to see a doctor to be properly diagnosed and treated in order to optimize the patient's health and quality of life.
  Dr. Cunningham's office is located in the Professional Building at 318 N. Alleghaney, Ste. 303. She sees both self-referred and physician-referred patients. For more information, call (432) 331-1234.