Our Services / Neuropathy

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy describes dysfunction or damage in your peripheral nervous system, the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord.

Your peripheral nerves control your muscle movements (motor nerves), your sense of touch (sensory nerves), and automatic functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure (autonomic nerves).

Trauma and uncontrolled diabetes are leading causes of neuropathy. In people with diabetes, very high blood sugar levels can damage your nerves and lead to additional complications.

Other conditions that can lead to neuropathy include:

• Lupus
• Infections
• Tumors
• Bone marrow disorders
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Chronic kidney disease
• Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

In some people, neuropathy can develop because of vitamin deficiencies, use of certain medications, and excessive alcohol use.

When should I seek help for neuropathy?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque if you have symptoms of neuropathy, such as:

• Throbbing pain
• Burning pain
• Numbness
• Weakness
• Tingling sensations
• Loss of coordination
• Increased sensitivity to touch

Symptoms of neuropathy can range from mild to debilitating and change depending on the type of nerve that has damage. In the most serious causes, neuropathy can cause loss of bowel and bladder function.

You may also develop wounds without knowing it because of reduced sensation. These wounds can be slow to heal and increase your risk for infection.

Dr. Ownbey can confirm your symptoms relate to neuropathy during a physical exam, neurological exam, and diagnostic imaging tests. He also offers nerve function tests like electromyography (EMG) to assess the electrical activity in your muscles.

How is neuropathy treated?

Your treatment plan may include one or more therapies that help you manage your neuropathy symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

Dr. Ownbey may initially recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to increase your comfort. You may also benefit from topical pain relief creams that you apply to the surface of your skin.

Other treatments options for neuropathy include:

• Lifestyle changes
• Physical therapy
• Prescription medications
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Surgery may be an option if you have severe neuropathy symptoms because of persistent pressure on your nerves, such as from a tumor or injury.

Dr. Ownbey also ensures that underlying conditions like diabetes are under control to prevent open wounds and other complications.

Call Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for neuropathy symptoms or book a consultation online today.