Neuropathy is a non-inflammatory condition caused by damage or dysfunction of peripheral nerves. These nerves transmit signals between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body, controlling muscle function, sense of touch, temperature, and pain. A condition in which nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are damaged is diagnosed as peripheral neuropathy. When multiple nerves located in the same area are affected, the term polyneuropathy is used.
Peripheral neuropathy is often associated with chronic diseases such as diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy, one of the most common forms of this disease, causes severe diabetic pain and discomfort in the legs. Polyneuropathy, which affects multiple nerves at the same time, can lead to serious complications and make daily life difficult.
Sufferers of neuropathy may experience a number of problems such as impaired gait, impaired coordination of movement, and increased risk of injury. These manifestations can significantly limit mobility and the ability to move independently, affecting the patient's overall health and emotional well-being.
At the podiatry clinic of Illinois Foot & Ankle Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, offers modern and effective neuropathy treatment aimed at relieving symptoms and improving patients' quality of life, to help manage the pain and discomfort caused by this condition.
When Is Neuropathy Treatment Recommended?
Many factors, both internal and external, contribute to the development of the disease:
- HIV infections;
- diabetes mellitus;
- endocrine and infectious diseases;
- autoimmune disorders;
- multiple sclerosis;
- rheumatoid arthritis;
- hereditary pathologies associated with genetic defects.
- Trauma and deep cuts;
- toxic exposures;
- avitaminosis;
- chronic alcoholism;
The disease can manifest itself in different ways, and we often perceive pathological symptomatology as signs of concomitant or other diseases.
The most characteristic symptoms for neuropathy are:
- burning and tingling sensations in the legs and feet;
- numbness and loss of sensation;
- pain syndrome of varying severity and intensity;
- muscle weakness;
- loss of reflexes;
- impaired coordination of movements:
- spasms and cramps.
If you experience these symptoms, do not delay a visit to a specialist. Seeking medical attention early can significantly improve treatment outcomes and your quality of life.
Preparation for Treatment
To ensure that treatment is as effective as possible, it is important to prepare for it properly.
The first step in preparing for neuropathy treatment is to consult with a qualified specialist.
- The doctor will verbally interview you about any symptoms you are experiencing, hereditary and chronic diseases, surgeries you have had and medications you are taking.
- Examine and palpate the nerve trunks for pain and thickening along their course. He will tap the nerve endings to detect possible tingling in sensitive areas.
- Evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment plan.
Various diagnostic procedures may be required to accurately diagnose neuropathy and determine its cause.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies: to assess the functional status of nerves and muscles.
- Blood tests: to help detect the presence of diabetes, vitamin deficiencies or other metabolic disorders that may be the cause of neuropathy.
Based on the results of the review study, the patient's condition is evaluated and the best treatment plan is determined.
The Neuropathy Treatment Process
Treatment of neuropathy is a comprehensive approach that includes a variety of therapies to relieve pain, improve foot function, and restore nerve conduction.
Drug therapy
- For pain relief - analgesics, antidepressants, topical medications (creams and ointments with capsaicin or lidocaine).
- To reduce nerve pain and tingling – anticonvulsant.
Physiotherapy shows good results in treatment
- Electrical stimulation: helps improve blood circulation and stimulate nerve activity, which helps reduce pain and improve muscle function.
- Ultrasound therapy: to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected areas.
- Massage: helps improve circulation, reduce muscle tension and relieve pain.
Special exercises
- Stretching exercises: to maintain flexibility and mobility of muscles and joints, which is important to prevent contractures and improve gait.
- Strengthening exercises: to strengthen the muscles of the legs and feet. Help improve coordination and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
- Exercises to improve circulation in the lower extremities: light aerobic exercise, walking or swimming.
Help block pain signals, stimulate nerve endings and improve nerve function:
- cold and heat therapy;
- transdermal electrical nerve stimulation (TENS);
- acupuncture sessions.
This treatment approach can help manage the symptoms of neuropathy and return patients to an active life.
Expected Outcomes
A comprehensive approach to treatment, including drug therapy and physiotherapy, helps to restore and stabilize nerve function. One of the main results of neuropathy treatment is a significant reduction in pain. Patients begin to feel relief within the first few weeks of treatment.
Patients notice:
- improved sensation;
- decreased numbness and tingling;
- significant improvement in mobility without restrictions and discomfort;
- improvement in emotional and psychological state.
Remember that early and proper treatment of neuropathy helps prevent serious complications such as foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations.
Benefits of Neuropathy Treatment at Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic
The Illinois Foot & Ankle Podiatry Clinic, led by Dr. Alex Yanovskiy, DPM, offers high-quality medical care and a unique approach to treating neuropathy.
The main benefits of treating neuropathy in our clinic are as follows
- Highly qualified specialists.
- Comprehensive approach to treatment.
- Individual treatment programs.
- Modern equipment and technologies.
- Thorough diagnostics:
- Patient support and follow-up at all stages of treatment.
Neuropathy treatment at Illinois Foot & Ankle is not only aimed at eliminating symptoms, but also at preventing potential complications such as ulcers, infections, and other problems associated with neuropathy. If you suffer from neuropathy, contacting our clinic can help you regain your health and improve your life.