Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nervous system, which means it connects the nerves extending from the brain and the spinal cord to various parts of the body. At times, this condition may present some degree of irritation or even loss of function, depending on the level of severity. Damaged nerves fail to relay messages between the central nervous system and surrounding body parts such as the arms, legs, and feet. This means that people suffering from peripheral neuropathy have to contend with a variety of painful symptoms that interfere with their normal routine.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
While peripheral neuropathy can stem from many different causes, one of the most prevalent is diabetic neuropathy. This diagnosis occurs when weakness or nerve damage develops as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels. Other causes include traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic disorders, heritable syndromes, and all kinds of toxins and their residues. Some types of medication, particularly those used in the treatment of cancer, can also cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to nerve impairment. In addition, some lifestyle habits, such as drinking alcohol and a lack of certain vitamins in the body, especially B vitamins, can aggravate this condition.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy:
The symptoms differ based on the type of nerve involvement—motor, sensory, or autonomic. Some of the usual symptoms include:
- Hands or feet experiencing tingling or numbness radiating to the legs or arms.
- Pains that are sharp, searing, or heat-like, which could happen over some time.
- The ability to tolerate even soft contact becomes absent.
- Poor control of body parts or muscle power.
In advanced situations, complete immobility except for the eyes is possible if motor nerves are grossly damaged. Many of these symptoms occur slowly and progressively with or without treatment and often affect the patient’s mobility and independence completely.
Traditional Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy
The management of peripheral neuropathy requires the treatment of the underlying reason where possible. Therefore, individuals suffering from diabetes can alleviate the symptoms by controlling blood sugar levels, and those with deficiencies in vitamins can take supplements. Pain medications, anti-seizure medications, and antidepressants to reduce nerve pain are also common treatments. People with muscle weakness may also benefit from physical therapy, which helps with strength and coordination.
Treating Peripheral Neuropathy with Laser Therapy in Newmarket
Laser therapy in Newmarket has become a viable option for many patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy. With low-level laser therapy (LLLT), it can be considered a treatment modality for pain relief, nerve repair, and tissue healing. With laser therapy, the affected region is exposed to a low-level light that, when directed appropriately, will penetrate the skin and expose the inner tissues to the light for the purpose of repairing the damaged cells. This can help lower the swelling and aid in the growth of new nerves, which is useful for people who suffer from neuropathic pain.
Benefits of laser treatment are available in Newmarket clinics that deal with people with peripheral neuropathy. Pain-relieving drugs only provide temporary relief, but pain therapy lasers are directed at the true cause of the condition by treating the nerves in the tissue, addressing both symptoms and the nerve condition. After undergoing a few sessions of laser therapy, a majority of the patients note a decrease in pain, an increase in the ability to sense, and an increase in the range of motions that can be performed.
Benefits of Laser Therapy for Peripheral Neuropathy
- Two Treats, One Device: Laser treatment is safe and effective for various pain conditions and does not require any surgical procedures or intake of drugs.
- Promotes Healing: Helps prevent further damage by supplying needed nutrients and oxygen to the injured nerves through the increased blood flow, thus promoting healing.
- Eases Pain and Swelling: Laser treatment decreases inflammation by working on the inflamed section, thus relieving aching of the nerves after some time.
Because the laser treatment offered in Newmarket is less intrusive, patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy will welcome it in place of more traditional treatment methods, which offer little relief. In Newmarket, make an appointment with a specialist to see if laser treatment can help you lower discomfort and enhance movement for a healthier and pain-free tomorrow.
