Neuropathy

Imagine Life without the Debilitating Pain of Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy is a very common problem that over 20 million people in the U.S. suffer from. Customary treatments can range anywhere from over the counter drugs such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin, to even more invasive measures such as surgery to reduce pain and discomfort. Neuropathy is a vast collection of disorders caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The PNS which refers to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord may become damaged by a number of different conditions. Most commonly, Neuropathy affects the arms/hands and/or legs/feet and are usually categorized as neurological (nerve damage) or vascular-based (venous damage)

Some common signs and symptoms of Neuropathy include:
• Cramps, pain, tingling and numbness in the toes, hands, feet, legs or elsewhere
• Low blood sugar symptoms
• Muscle loss
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Burning Sensations
• High Sensitivity to Touch
• Low blood pressure after standing
• Sharp or Throbbing Pain
• Feeling of wearing gloves or socks when you are not
• Heat Intolerance

Some of the most common issues that are associated with Neuropathy are diabetes, chemotherapy, prolonged medication use, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, alcoholism and trauma but unfortunately for many, the cause is unknown. Management of neuropathy can vary depending on the cause, but the sooner the symptoms are addressed the better the outcome. Until now the primary management of symptoms associated with neuropathy has been very limited, does nothing to help the nerves repair themselves or improve function and has a multitude of side effects.

At Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness our groundbreaking treatment protocol not only helps relieve the symptoms of Neuropathy but also works to restore the function of damaged nerves. This cutting-edge combination of therapies has helped our patients achieve long-lasting relief of symptoms without having to take pain medications or undergo an unnecessary surgical procedures. Before treatment begins it is very important to have the proper diagnostic studies performed in order to determine the underlying source causing these painful symptoms.

Diagnosing neuropathy can be done and of course varies patient to patient but will include a few painless, non-invasive tests that can be performed in the office beginning with Electrodiagnostic Studies (NCV/EMG). This consists of testing the electrical activity of the suspected nerves and muscles to detect any potential nerve damage which helps confirm the underlying cause or source and usually takes no longer than 15 minutes to perform.

Next, an Ultrasound Test can be performed if necessary on the veins in the lower extremities to determine if venous reflux is present. Veins are responsible for carrying blood back to the heart. When the blood flows backward known as reflux, blood pools and reduces the efficiency of blood flow to the extremities. This affects the nerves causing pain and discomfort just like when your foot or hand falls asleep due to lack of circulation. In certain individuals it may be necessary to undergo additional testing including an MRI or Blood Work.

An MRI can be necessary to assist in revealing overall muscle quality and size, detect any fatty deposits which are replacing lean tissue, rule out masses, herniated/bulging discs or other abnormalities that may trigger the signs of Neuropathy. Additionally, Blood Tests can be necessary to detect any possible vitamin or mineral deficiencies, diabetes markers, auto-immune conditions and other conditions that can facilitate Neuropathy.

Under the Neuropathy treatment umbrella, we may recommend a combination of therapies to treat the painful causes of Neuropathy including:

Peripheral Nerve Blocks and Regenerative Medicine (Stem Cells)

The affected region affected is injected with a non-steroidal anesthetic. This causes local blood vessels to dilate, allowing for improved circulation around the nerves. This process facilitates improved oxygen delivery to the nerves which promotes restoration of the damaged nerve fibers. The anesthetic also helps to re-channel the neurological pain pathway which blocks the perception of pain offering symptom relief.

These injections can be combined with PRP, Stem Cells, Amniotic Fluid or Exosomes to enhance the therapeutic effect and assist with safely helping to reverse peripheral neuropathy damage and symptoms. Take advantage of the body’s ability to repair itself by recruiting your body’s own stem cells to support healing, reduce scar tissue and inflammation while directly assisting the body in tissue repair, reducing pain and contributing to the regeneration and reconstruction of injured and degenerated tissue.

No steroids are used in these procedures because they can actually diminish the immune system response and increase blood glucose (sugar) levels. Our Peripheral Nerve Block and Regenerative Medicine procedures typically occur adjacent to the major nerves of the affected area using a local anesthetic and/or other natural compounds. This not only assists in pain reduction but also enhances the therapeutic effect of the Neuro-Muscle stimulation.

NEURO- MUSCLE STIMULATION

Neuro-Muscle Stimulation is designed to improve circulation, decrease pain, reduce inflammation/swelling and assists in the healing process. NMS for peripheral neuropathy delivers a specific electrical frequency and amplitude to target the damaged nerves. These specific protocols decrease nerve pain and reduce nerve irritation. Stimulation of the chemical messengers in the nervous system help repair the damaged cells and provide long term relief. NMS is administered after each Peripheral Nerve Block or Regenerative Medicine procedure to assist in the facilitation of the healing process.

ELECTRO-ACUPUNCTURE

Combines effects of NMS w/ traditional acupuncture to help decrease inflammation and reduce pain, improve circulation, stimulate damaged nerve fibers and increase neuron function.

LOW LEVEL LASER THERAPY

Low Level Laser Therapy delivers a specific frequency of light to create a photoelectric effect at the nerve membrane layer which results in chemical, physiologic and structural changes in the membrane and surrounding tissues. This leads to a reduction in inflammation, improved circulation, decreased swelling, pain reduction and faster healing time.

WHOLE BODY VIBRATION THERAPY

We also utilize Whole Body Vibration Therapy to heighten balance and coordination while reducing soreness and stiffness in the feet often induced by neuropathy. By restoring circulation to your extremities, we can help to regenerate damaged nerve tissue and improve sensation as well. Balance is almost always affected, so the team at Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness will also create an individualized balance training program to help prevent falls and stabilize your body. This balance program helps give you the confidence you need, “To live without fear of falling.”

MANUAL THERAPY

Manual Therapy and Mobilization Techniques including: Soft Tissue Mobilization to break up inelastic or myofascial adhesions, to enhance lymphatic drainage and relax muscle tension; Strain-Counterstrain to correct abnormal neuro-muscular reflexes that cause structural and postural problems; and Joint Mobilization to loosen up the restricted joint and increase its range of motion. These all are geared to stimulate blood flow, enhance lymphatic drainage and promote healing, while relaxing muscles and soft tissues affected by nerve dysfunction.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Exercises, stretches and other Restorative Therapy techniques can improve balance, strength, and range of motion. Nerve root irritation in the neck or back, weak ligaments in the wrists or ankles and Osteoarthritis of nearby supporting joints are only a few examples of associated conditions that can affect your body and contribute to your Peripheral Neuropathy symptoms.

LIFESTYLE COUNSELING

Proper nutrition is foundational for healing and at Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness we choose to look at nutrition in a three-fold process which includes diet, exercise and nutrient deficiencies. This in turn allows us to analyze each case individually, producing a personalized plan that not only addresses current health concerns but also supports long term wellness. Other lifestyle modifications that can be beneficial include: Quit smoking, Exercise, Evaluate your medication list, Get adequate sleep and rest, Eat healthy and take care of your spine and body to promote optimal well-being.

At Airport Plaza Spine & Wellness every patient’s condition is unique and will be fully assessed by our Double Board Certified Physician before a customized treatment plan is recommended. To schedule a Free Consultation, please fill out our contact form or call: 732-END PAIN now and take your life back.

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