It is estimated that nearly 20 million United States citizens suffer from some form of neuropathy. Neuropathy, in the broadest of meanings refers to various ailments or diseases of the nervous system in the body. It is usually classified into three basic categories
• Mononeuropathy – damage to a single nerve, such as found in carpal tunnel
• Polyneuropathy – generalized involvement of peripheral nerves – such as diabetic neuropathy
• Multiple Mononeuropathy – two or more individual nerves being affected.
In addition to being classified based on the nerves affected, neuropathy is also commonly categorized by the type of organs affected, for example motor, sensory, or autonomic, or even the type of onset. Acute neuropathy occurs over a period of hours or days, while chronic occurs over months or years.
Although the symptoms of neuropathy are fairly easy to see, the condition itself is not always easy to diagnose. Neuropathy is not a single disease, but rather a set of symptoms that can have any number of underlying causes. However, a standard diagnostic process has been developed. It begins with a full medical history, an examination of tendon reflexes, muscle strength, and tone, and a neurological examination. There are a few other common tests, but which ones are used greatly depends on the situation. The more information that the doctor has the easier it is for him to diagnose accurately.
It is not exactly certain what causes the damage to the nerves that characterize neuropathy. About a third of the cases are due to unknown causes, while another third can be attributed to diabetes. The remaining instances appear to be caused by such things as trauma or pressure on the nerves, nutritional problems and vitamin deficiencies, or even autoimmune conditions.
Once the diagnosis has been properly made, effective treatment can begin. In a number of cases, the cause of neuropathy is trauma to the nerves involved, often through compression of the nerve where it joins into the spinal cord. If this is the case, often the treatment prescribed involves some over the counter pain medication, physical therapy, and spinal manipulation by a professional chiropractor.
If the source of your condition is due to trauma to the nerves from a misaligned spinal column, a chiropractor is an excellent resource. They have been specially trained, over many years, to manipulate the spinal column in such a way to safely relieve the pressure and compression on the nerves causing your neuropathy.
Neuropathy can be an extremely difficult condition to deal with on a daily basis. The symptoms of numbness, pain, and even the loss of motor functions can be frightening and frustrating. Worse yet, if the symptoms are not treated properly, severe injury or death is distinct possibilities. If you suffer from neuropathy, please make sure you find a program that works best for your individual set of conditions. Talk with your chiropractor today – chances are they will be able to help you live your life to the fullest.
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