Neuropathy
Relief from nerve pain is within reach.
Find your path forward.
Dealing with tingling, numbness, or sharp, burning pain in your hands or feet? You may be experiencing neuropathy, a condition caused by nerve damage. At St. Luke's Neurosciences, our team of highly skilled neurologists specialize in diagnosing and treating neuropathy, helping you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Identifying symptoms of neuropathy
Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves, which typically results in numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or pain in the affected area. Peripheral neuropathy, the most common form, affects the network of nerves outside your brain and spinal cord (the peripheral nerves). This condition can be caused by a range of factors, including diabetes, injuries, infections, vitamin deficiencies and exposure to toxins like alcohol. For many, it significantly impacts daily activities and overall well-being. Neuropathy symptoms depend on the type of nerves affected. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Gradual onset of numbness, prickling, or tingling in your feet or hands
- Sharp, jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
- Extreme sensitivity to touch
- Lack of coordination and falling
- Muscle weakness
Diagnosing and treating neuropathy at St. Luke's
Our neurologists use a comprehensive approach to identify the cause of your nerve pain and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Your St. Luke's neurologist will start with a physical exam and a review of your medical history. To pinpoint the cause and extent of the nerve damage, they may recommend:
- Blood tests: To check for vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, or other underlying conditions.
- Nerve function tests: Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) are both part of a diagnostic test that evaluates the muscles and the nerves that control them.
While some forms of neuropathy cannot be cured, treatment at St. Luke's focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Your personalized plan may include:
- Pain relief medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, topical treatments, and prescription medications to alleviate nerve pain. Our Neurosciences team specializes in finding the right medication for you.
- Physical therapy: A targeted exercise program can help improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination. We work closely with Physical Therapy at St. Luke's to create your plan.
- Managing underlying conditions: If your neuropathy is caused by a condition like diabetes, our team will coordinate your care to manage it effectively.
Why choose St. Luke's for neuropathy care?
St. Luke's Neurosciences brings together a team of board-certified neurologists, pain management specialists, and physical therapists who are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care for nerve-related conditions.
We utilize the latest technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis and offer advanced treatment options to help you find relief from your symptoms and lead a fuller life. Don't let nerve pain hold you back.
Frequently asked questions about neuropathy
In some cases, if the underlying cause is treated, nerve damage can be stopped or even reversed. In many cases, however, treatment focuses on preventing further damage and managing symptoms.
Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy in the United States.
Managing any underlying medical conditions, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding exposure to toxins can all help prevent further nerve damage.
Specialized care for complete neurological wellness.
Finding the right neuroscience specialist is essential for effective treatment and management of your neurological condition. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing compassionate, individualized care to ensure you receive the best possible support on your journey to recovery.