Neuropathy

Numbness, tingling, or burning pain caused by nerve damage is something you don’t have to live with daily. At the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders (DCND), offering services to adults in Dayton, Centerville, Springfield, Eaton, Wilmington, Hillsboro, Beavercreek, and Huber Heights, Ohio, the skilled neurology team diagnoses and treats neuropathy (nerve pain) to restore your quality of life and diminish further nerve damage. To receive a neuropathy evaluation at DCND, the first step is to procure a referral from your primary care physician. Then, the office will reach out to you to schedule an appointment.

Neuropathy Q & A

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve damage, pain, or other bothersome symptoms when not treated. Neuropathy is a common condition, but it can become crippling in some cases. See the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders team at the first sign of numbness, tingling, or other hallmark symptoms of nerve damage.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Common symptoms of neuropathy include:

Muscle weakness
Numbness
Pain
Burning
Tingling
Changes in urination
Bowel problems
Digestion issues
Touch sensitivity
Prickling
Jabbing or throbbing discomfort
Falls
Lack of coordination
Reduced mobility
Heat intolerance
Changes in sweating
Drops in blood pressure
Lightheadedness
Dizziness

Burning, numbness, or tingling associated with neuropathy commonly appears in the hands, arms, legs, or feet. Your symptoms may range in severity from mild to severe.

What are the risk factors for neuropathy?

The following causes and risk factors may increase your chance of having neuropathy:

Diabetes
Metabolic syndrome
Rheumatoid arthritis
Lupus
Other autoimmune diseases
Tumors
Infections
Inherited disorders
Family history of neuropathy
Bone marrow disorders
Kidney diseases
Liver diseases
Thyroid issues
Alcohol use disorder
Toxin exposure
Some medicines
Nerve injuries
Repetitive motions
Nutrient deficiencies

Low levels of B vitamins, vitamin E, or copper may contribute to nerve problems. The cause of neuropathy isn’t always clear.

When not addressed, complications associated with the condition may include foot damage, infections, or falls.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking, toxin exposure, repetitive motions, and excessive alcohol may reduce your neuropathy risk.

How does my provider diagnose neuropathy?

The Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders team can diagnose neuropathy after discussing your medical history, lifestyle habits, medications, symptoms, and more. They complete physical and neurological exams and may order blood testing, nerve tests, or imaging procedures. You might need a nerve or skin biopsy.

How is neuropathy treated?

Treatment for neuropathy includes treating its underlying cause and reducing discomfort. Your neurologist may suggest one or more of the following:

Diet or exercise changes
Healthy lifestyle changes
Dietary supplements
Medically supervised weight loss
Diabetes management
Medications
Spinal cord stimulation
Scrambler therapy
Infusions
Neurology rehabilitation
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy
Surgery

It’s important to follow up with the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders team as often as needed to minimize bothersome symptoms and achieve the best quality of life possible.

To receive a neuropathy evaluation at the Dayton Center for Neurological Disorders, the first step is to obtain a referral from your primary care physician. Then the DCND team will reach out to arrange an appointment.