Neuropathy Treatment in Alexandria VA

Are you contending with the discomfort of neuropathy, or specifically, peripheral neuropathy in Alexandria, VA? Neuropathy encompasses a variety of conditions that emerge when the peripheral nervous system—the network of nerves outside your brain and spinal cord—becomes damaged. Known as peripheral neuropathy, this condition typically arises when the nerve axons, responsible for sending electrical impulses, are impaired. This can lead to altered sensations of touch and temperature. A prevalent outcome of neuropathy is the experience of pain, numbness, and a tingling sensation in one's extremities, particularly the hands and feet. Causes of neuropathy are numerous and can include diabetes—the most common factor—along with injuries, infections, metabolic imbalances, and exposure to toxins.

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Diverse Forms of Neuropathy in Alexandria VA

Neuropathy takes various forms, including:

• Sensorimotor polyneuropathy: impacting both sensory and motor nerves.
• Autonomic Neuropathy: affecting nerves that regulate involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate and sweating.

Peripheral neuropathy can manifest as a sharp, burning, or prickling pain, which, while varying in duration, can often see improvement over time, especially with appropriate neuropathy therapy for any underlying issues. Lifestyle factors like poor nutrition or diseases can correlate with the condition, and at times, the cause might remain elusive, termed as idiopathic neuropathy.

The Neuropathy Association has indicated that neuropathy affects over 20 million people in the U.S.—more than those affected by many other serious illnesses combined. A significant portion of these individuals, especially those with diabetes, may experience neuropathy in their hands and feet due to their condition.

There are well over 100 kinds of neuropathy, and peripheral neuropathy specifically can be further segmented by the number of nerves affected, such as mononeuropathy for a single nerve, multiple mononeuropathy for two or more, and polyneuropathy when a wide array of peripheral nerves is involved.

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Root Causes of Neuropathy

Neuropathy's origins are varied, with nearly 40% of cases having no identifiable cause, referred to as idiopathic. Approximately 35% of neuropathy sufferers have diabetes. Acquired neuropathies form another segment, with causes ranging from lifestyle factors like alcoholism and nutritional deficiencies to autoimmune diseases, repetitive motion, and external pressures on nerves.

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Who is Prone to Neuropathy?

Anyone in Alexandria VA can be affected by neuropathy, though it's more common among men, Caucasians, and those engaged in repetitive tasks. Risk factors include lifestyle choices, pre-existing health conditions, and behaviors. Various predispositions, such as autoimmune diseases or compromised immune systems, can increase the likelihood of developing neuropathy.

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Identifying Neuropathy

Diagnosing neuropathy is often complex, as it frequently presents as a symptom of another condition rather than a standalone disease. A thorough medical evaluation, including physical and neurological exams, is essential for a proper diagnosis, which may also involve blood tests, urinalysis, and nerve conduction studies.

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Relief for Numbness in Your Hands and Feet

In Alexandria VA, a multitude of neuropathy treatments are available, ranging from prescription medication to creams, dietary adjustments, and various therapies, all aimed at improving nerve function. Common treatments include antidepressants for pain relief, anticonvulsants to inhibit pain transmission, and in some cases, opioid narcotics. There are also alternative neuropathy therapies, such as cannabinoids, dietary supplements, and physical therapies like chiropractic adjustments, massage, yoga, and acupuncture.

Neuromodulator therapies may also be considered, which can involve surgical implants to help manage pain. Maintaining proper nutrition and a regular exercise regimen is crucial, especially for those with diabetes, to prevent and manage neuropathy symptoms. For those who smoke, cessation is advised, and regular massage of the hands and feet can provide immediate relief.

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For further guidance and neuropathy specialist consultation, contact the team at Family Chiropractic of Alexandria in Alexandria VA.