Neuropathy

Burning, tingling, and numbness associated with neuropathy are symptoms you don’t have to live with. At Great Lakes Health & Wellness in Palos Heights, Illinois, board-certified chiropractor Mary Peterson, DC, and her experienced team diagnose and treat neuropathy pain using holistic methods. Schedule a consultation at Great Lakes Health & Wellness by phone or online today for nerve pain relief. 

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition caused by damaged nerves. It leads to numbness, pain, and disability in some cases when not addressed. Numerous factors can contribute to neuropathy discomfort, including genetics and lifestyle habits. See the Great Lakes Health & Wellness team at the first sign of neuropathy to reduce your risk of long-lasting complications. 

What symptoms can neuropathy cause?

Neuropathy can cause the following symptoms:

• Sharp pain
• Tingling
• Numbness
• Burning
• Shooting discomfort
• Prickling 
• Throbbing pain
• Radiating discomfort
• Muscle weakness
• Poor coordination
• Bladder or bowel issues

These and other symptoms often occur on your hands or feet, though they can affect other areas of your body. It might feel like you’re wearing gloves or socks when you’re not. You may also have a higher risk of falls.

What are the risk factors for neuropathy?

Common risk factors for developing neuropathy include:

• Diabetes
• Family history of nerve problems
• Autoimmune diseases
• Tumors
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Alcohol misuse
• Bone marrow disorders
• Infections 
• Toxin exposure
• Liver, thyroid, or kidney disorders

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits and maintaining an ideal body weight may reduce your risk of developing neuropathy. Eat nutritious foods, minimize stress, and get regular exercise. If your provider recommends it, take a multivitamin supplement, and properly manage chronic diseases.

How does my specialist diagnose neuropathy?

Diagnosing neuropathy often consists of a medical history review, vital signs check, a physical exam, and a neurological exam. Before tailoring your treatment plan, your provider may complete blood testing, a nerve or skin biopsy, nerve function tests, or imaging procedures. 

How is neuropathy treated?

Great Lakes Health & Wellness offers an array of holistic treatments for neuropathy pain, including:

• Decompression
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Diabetic shoes
• Summus® Medical laser therapy 
• Physical therapy 
• Massage
• Healthy lifestyle counseling

Decompression uses a pulley system to stretch your spine and other tissues, thereby reducing nerve compression and discomfort. 

Your provider might also use chiropractic adjustments to manually manipulate misaligned parts of your body that place unnecessary pressure on painful nerves.

Acupuncture uses tiny needles to stimulate healing, reduce discomfort, and improve energy flow naturally.

Trying holistic solutions often reduces the need for invasive procedures or addictive pain medications. Your provider follows up with you periodically for repeat treatments to ensure long-lasting nerve pain relief. 

Schedule a neuropathy evaluation at Great Lakes Health & Wellness by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.