Peripheral neuropathy is a common chronic pain condition that results from damage to peripheral nerves. It is estimated that more than 20 million American suffer from peripheral neuropathy and is most common among older adults. While peripheral neuropathy is not a new condition, in the past it hasn’t received much attention. Often misdiagnosed, it is commonly thought to be a side effect of another disease such as cancer or diabetes. However, today we are learning more and more about peripheral neuropathy and gaining ground in better ways of treating the condition including non-drug therapies such as Chiropractic Neurology.
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when your peripheral nerves, or the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the both, malfunction due to damage or destruction. While nearly 30% of peripheral neuropathy cases are “idiopathic”, or of unknown cause, another 30% of cases are caused by diabetes. Other factors and underlying conditions such as autoimmune disorders, heredity, nutritional imbalances and infections may also cause peripheral neuropathy. While painful, there are effective treatments available that can be very helpful. The most important thing to remember is to see your doctor and determine if the neuropathy is being caused by an underlying condition.
As with many disorders, traditional treatment for peripheral neuropathy has been rooted in medications. However, many patients today are calling for alternative therapies that do not rely on drug therapies. Chiropractic Neurology is a perfect fit for patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy as the treatment is drug-free and non-invasive, eliminating the often negative side effects that accompany drug treatments.
Chiropractic neurologists are highly trained in the intricacies of the brain- nervous system connection. By uncovering which areas of a patient’s nervous system are causing the problem, they can create the best treatment plan possible, uncovering the root of the pain, not merely masking the symptoms, and ultimately returning the patient to a state of optimum health and well being. As each patient’s symptoms and experiences are unique, so are the treatment plans that your Chiropractic Neurologist will develop. And many times, the treatment plans are fast acting.
If you or a loved one are suffering from pain that you think may be caused by peripheral neuropathy, please contact Dr Marc Ellis at the Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center today for your consultation and the road back to relief from pain and a good quality of life.