Neuropathy in Jacksonville IL

At Collaborative Medical, neuropathy is just one of the many medical conditions that we treat. Neuropathy in Jacksonville IL is damage to one or more of a body's nerves, usually resulting in dysfunction in movement and sensation. Here is what you need to know about neuropathy and how it is treated.

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What Is Neuropathy in Jacksonville IL?

The nervous system is a network of cells that moves nerve impulses throughout the body. This network helps the body receive sensory information and then uses that information to coordinate motor responses. Neuropathy damages nerves, which disrupts this process, making communication between the body and the mind more difficult. There are different types of neuropathy: autonomic, focal, peripheral, and proximal neuropathy.

Signs and symptoms of this disease will depend on the affected nerve and the severity of the problem. Typically, someone with neuropathy will experiences numbness, tingling, burning, and similar paresthesia-like symptoms. Some people report dizziness, twitching, imbalance, muscle weakness, and a loss of sensation. A neuropathic person may not be able to feel the cold, the heat, or a physical injury. The symptoms will also vary depending on what type of neuropathy you have. For example, those with peripheral neuropathy are more likely to have pain sensitivity, and burning or stinging sensations in the legs or feet.

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Causes and Risk Factors of Neuropathy

Neuropathy doesn't have a singular cause behind it. Rather, there are many health conditions that are associated with this condition. Some cases of neuropathy won't have a known cause. You are more likely to develop neuropathy if you have diabetes, physical trauma, an autoimmune disease, a vascular disorder, or a hereditary condition. Be on the lookout for neuropathy symptoms if you have tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, Sjogren's syndrome, shingles, Lyme disease, lupus, HIV virus, alcoholism, or a vitamin deficiency. Some patients who take antibiotics, HIV medication, chemotherapy, or other heavy substances may be more susceptible to neuropathy.

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How Neuropathy Is Treated

Treatment for neuropathy has to start with a diagnosis from a chiropractor or physician that specializes in this field. A healthcare professional might perform a medical exam and have the patient fill out a questionnaire to determine whether neuropathy is present. EMG testing is a common diagnostic tool that can check on the patient's nerves.

Once a diagnosis is confirmed, our health professional will discuss treatment options with you. Physical therapy is a popular treatment for neuropathy. A certified physical therapist will be able to use specialized techniques, movements, or devices to address the damaged nerve.

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If you are a Jacksonville IL resident living with nerve pain, then it's time to contact us today. We have designed a quality pain management program that will treat your neuropathy in no time.