10 Questions Neuropathy Patients Should Ask Their Doctor

If you’re meeting with your doctor or neurologist for the first time to discuss your neuropathy like symptoms – such as pain, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet – your mind is likely swirling with questions, concerns, what-ifs and more. Taking the time beforehand to write down a list of questions or concerns you wish to discuss can have a significant impact not only on your peace of mind – but also on your chances of receiving the best advice and care possible for your own unique circumstances. Asking the right questions can help both you and your…
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Neuropathy 10 Things You Need to Know

Life with neuropathy can be filled with unknowns – especially for those of us whose symptoms or diagnoses are relatively new. Navigating this new life with a painful condition can be (and most often is) overwhelming and frustrating. From bothersome symptoms like lack of muscle control to debilitating ones such as sharp, stabbing pains in the hands or feet, it can wreak havoc on your quality of life. Finding out as much information as possible about the condition, its causes and its treatments can go a long way in getting you onto the path to a better – and more pain…
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Spinal Cord Cells Control Pain

Spinal cord cells are responsible for controlling pain and itch, according to research published in the journal Neuron. Researchers from the University of Zurich used genetically modified viruses to interfere with the functions of neurons in mice in order to investigate how neurons contribute to pain and itch processing. The researchers drew on prior findings from 50 years ago, which had demonstrated “Gate Control Theory” of pain – the idea that inhibitory nerve cells in the spinal cord could determine whether a pain impulse from the periphery (from the foot, for example) is relayed to the brain or suppressed. The…
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Sciatica: Hitting the right nerves 

Sciatica symptoms explain conditions around the sciatic nerve A lot of people have their lives badly affected by sciatica. Like most other conditions, you can deal with sciatica effectively with a well planned and structured exercises program. But before we go into details of specific sciatica exercises, it is first important to explain what sciatica is, as it is often misunderstood. Sciatica is a set of symptoms rather than a diagnosis in itself (meaning it does not explain the cause of the pain). Sciatica is a general term used to explain a set of symptoms around the sciatic nerve. Technically,…
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Chronic Nerve Pain Linked to Anxiety & Depression

Study links brain inflammation triggered by chronic paint to anxiety and depression. Brain inflammation caused by chronic nerve pain alters activity in regions that regulate mood and motivation, suggesting for the first time that a direct biophysical link exists between long-term pain and the depression, anxiety and substance abuse seen in more than half of these patients, UC Irvine and UCLA researchers report. This breakthrough finding also points to new approaches for treating chronic pain, which is second only to bipolar disorder among illness-related causes of suicide. About a quarter of Americans suffer from chronic pain, making it the most common form of enduring…
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Vitamin B6 Boosts Your Mood and Your Nerves

Among vitamins, Vitamin B6 is one of the most essential vitamins for nerve health and is important for anyone suffering from painful nerve related health problems such as Neuropathy. What Are The Benefits of Vitamin B6? Vitamin B6 performs a variety of functions that are essential for your health.  According to Dee Sandquist, MS, RD, CD, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, “It is important for cardiovascular, digestive, immune, muscular, and nervous system function.” Of these many benefits, the most relevant for Neuropathy patients is vitamin B6’s positive affect on nerve health.  Vitamin B6 boosts the health of nerves and is…
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Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

  Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic musculoskeletal pain condition affecting the limbs, hands, and feet, after an injury or limb trauma. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is believed to be caused by malfunction of the peripheral and central nervous systems. Individuals have characterized CRPS as prolonged severe pain, changes to the skin, and/or swelling in the affected area. There are two common forms, CRPS-I and CRPS-II. CRPS-I patients do not have confirmed nerve injury. Patients with CRPS-II have confirmed nerve injuries. Symptoms vary in length and severity. In most cases the disease is mild and individuals recover…
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What is Peripheral Neuropathy

Think of peripheral neuropathy like static on a telephone line, both interrupt the sending of information. Peripheral neuropathy is a result of nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system. This damage causing a disruption of information from the brain and spinal cord to other parts of the body. It can occur following traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, and exposure to toxins. Diabetes is a common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include muscle weakness, numbness, tingling sensations (paresthesia), loss of sensation. As well as pain sensations in the feet, hands, and other parts of the body. Neuropathy can…
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