Peripheral Neuropathy is a serious condition that can cause pain and other issues. Like most health conditions, the sooner the problem is identified, the higher the likelihood that treatment is successful. Doctors can’t reverse damage to nerves, but they can help you prevent further damage and control symptoms that may be causing issues.
Diagnosing Peripheral Neuropathy
The diagnosis process begins by taking a closer look at the patient’s full medical history. Once reviewed, the doctor will then conduct a physical examination of the foot, and they may ask you to perform certain movements to see if symptoms appear or alleviate. They’ll also ask a number of questions pertaining to your pain, including when pain started, if there was an acute moment of injury, if you have any family history of certain medical conditions, and what symptoms you are noticing. Imaging tests aren’t always performed, but your doctor may conduct an X-ray, MRI or CT scan to look for signs of nerve damage or to rule out other potential problems. Blood tests can also help point to a cause.
Managing & Treating Peripheral Neuropathy
If your doctor believes you are dealing with peripheral neuropathic pain, they’ll explain what’s causing your specific problem and the best ways to treat the condition. The best way to manage peripheral neuropathy is to follow your doctor’s specific instructions, but some common general guidelines for treating the condition include managing underlying conditions (like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis), improving your diet, cutting back on alcohol consumption and smoking, and getting more exercise in your daily life.
For more information about peripheral neuropathy, or to talk to a team of pain specialists about your condition, reach out to the medical experts at Revive MD at (651) 644-6002.