Neuropathy Services in Santa Clarita

Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, is a range of conditions suffered by millions of people throughout the United States and across the globe. Neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves become damaged. It can cause severe pain and weakness.

While neuropathy cannot be cured, there are treatments available to help you manage the symptoms. At Unruh Spine Centers, we provide neuropathy services in Santa Clarita. Our experienced team members can help develop a comprehensive care and treatment plan to help you manage your neuropathy symptoms, including your pain. If you suffer from neuropathy, contact our office at (661) 288-0022 to schedule an appointment.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy (peripheral neuropathy) refers to a series of conditions caused by damage to the peripheral nerves. The peripheral nerves are located outside of the brain and spinal cord. They send sensory information and other data from the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) to the rest of the body. 

When the peripheral nerves are damaged, they can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and other discomfort throughout the body. The conditions caused by the nerve damage are collectively referred to as neuropathy. Therefore, it is not one single condition but rather a range of conditions that affect millions of people each year. 

What Causes Neuropathy?

Neuropathy may be caused by a number of factors. Neuropathy can be inherited, or it may be caused by an external force, such as a traumatic injury. In some cases, what caused the neuropathy to occur may not be readily apparent.

Common causes of neuropathy:

• Diabetes
• Traumatic injury
• Infection
• Exposure to toxins
• Autoimmune disease
• Tumors
• Inherited disorders
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Alcohol use disorder

Peripheral neuropathy cannot be reversed, but it can be treated. Early intervention can help you manage your symptoms and help you live a more pain-free life.

What Are the Different Types of Neuropathy?

There are dozens of different types of neuropathy, but they are generally classified into four different groups based on which nerves are affected.

The four categories of neuropathy are:

• Autonomic nerve neuropathy
• Motor neuropathy
• Sensory neuropathy
• Combination neuropathy

Neuropathy may also be classified based on the number of nerves affected. For instance, you could be diagnosed with mononeuropathy, meaning that only one nerve is damaged, or polyneuropathy, signaling that multiple nerves are damaged.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathy?

The signs and symptoms of neuropathy are as varied as the condition itself. It is important to have any suspected nerve damage examined by a medical professional. Early intervention can help you better manage your symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of neuropathy:

• Numbness or tingling near the affected area
• Prickling sensation
• Sharp or jabbing pain
• A lack of coordination or balance
• Muscle weakness
• Sensitivity to touch
• Blurred vision
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Heat intolerance
• Feeling like you are wearing a sock or gloves

Symptoms of neuropathy can range in severity. They may be constant or intermittent, meaning they come and go. It may help to keep a detailed journal about any adverse health problems that you experience as a result of your condition. 

How Is Neuropathy Diagnosed?

Neuropathy should be diagnosed by a medical professional. A doctor will look at your medical history and may conduct a neurological exam to help diagnose the condition. In addition to the exam, you may be asked to complete several tests, such as a blood test or imaging test, to determine what is causing the condition. Finally, a medical professional may order nerve function tests such as an electromyography (EMG) to confirm the diagnosis. 

What Treatments Are Available for Neuropathy?

Currently, there is no cure for neuropathy, but there are treatments to help manage the symptoms associated with the condition. Treatment options range depending on the severity of the condition. As part of your care plan, you may be given both medication and physical therapy to help address your symptoms. 

Treatments for neuropathy may include:

• Medications to help manage your pain
• Therapies such as physical therapy and spinal cord stimulation
• Supplements to help with nutritional deficiencies
• Lidocaine injections or patches to help with pain
• Nerve stimulation
• Surgery

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for neuropathy. In most cases, it requires a tailored treatment plan to help ensure that all of your symptoms are addressed. Controlling the symptoms of neuropathy can help ensure you are not limited by the condition.

Get Neuropathy Services Today in Santa Clarita

Have you had nerve damage or been diagnosed with neuropathy? We may be able to help. At Unruh Spine Centers, our doctors will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that will give you more freedom to move and less pain.