07/02/2026
ЁЯМ┐ Peripheral Neuropathy Explained
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition where the peripheral nerves тАФ the nerves outside your brain and spinal cord тАФ are damaged. These nerves carry messages between your brain/spinal cord and the rest of your body.
When these nerves are damaged, signals are disrupted, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
ЁЯФ╣ Types of Peripheral Neuropathy
Sensory neuropathy тАУ affects sensation
Symptoms: tingling, numbness, burning, or sharp pain
Motor neuropathy тАУ affects movement
Symptoms: muscle weakness, cramps, twitching, difficulty walking
Autonomic neuropathy тАУ affects involuntary functions
Symptoms: digestive issues, abnormal heart rate, sweating changes, bladder/bowel problems
ЁЯФ╣ Common Causes
Diabetes тАУ most common cause
Vitamin deficiencies тАУ especially B12
Infections тАУ shingles, Lyme disease, HIV
Autoimmune disorders тАУ lupus, Guillain-Barr├й syndrome
Chronic alcohol use
Certain medications тАУ chemotherapy, some antibiotics
Trauma or compression тАУ carpal tunnel, herniated discs
Genetic disorders тАУ Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
ЁЯФ╣ Symptoms
Tingling or тАЬpins and needlesтАЭ
Numbness in hands, feet, or other areas
Burning, sharp, or stabbing pain
Weakness in muscles
Poor coordination or balance
Sensitivity to touch or temperature
Digestive or bladder issues (autonomic neuropathy)
ЁЯФ╣ Diagnosis
Medical and neurological examination
Blood tests (diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues)
Nerve conduction study or electromyography (EMG)
Imaging (MRI/CT) if nerve compression suspected
ЁЯФ╣ Treatment
Treat underlying cause
Diabetes management
Vitamin supplementation
Stop or adjust medications causing neuropathy
Symptom relief
Pain medications (NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, antidepressants)
Physical therapy for strength and balance
Alternative therapies: acupuncture, massage, nerve stimulation
Lifestyle support
Regular exercise
Healthy diet
Avoid alcohol and toxins
ЁЯМ┐ Key Takeaway
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage outside the brain and spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent worsening and improve quality of life.
