Surgical Decompression For Compression Neuropathy Offers Many Advantages

Surgical decompression can offer long-lasting pain relief and restore sensation in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, leading to an improved quality of life. That was the word from Stephen L. Barrett, DPM, an adjunct professor at Midwestern University College of Health Sciences, Podiatric Medicine Program and founder of Barrett Foot & Ankle in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Barrett said that surgical decompression has been shown to restore sensation; reduce pain; prevent amputation and ulceration; improve balance and prevent falls; decrease global healthcare costs; and perhaps most importantly, improve the quality of life for diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. 1 “Zhang, Li,…
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Prediabetes in Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy may be more common in patients with prediabetes than previously thought, and early interventions may be warranted in this patient population, according to researchers from the University of Utah. Currently, 86 million adults, more than one in three U.S. adults, have prediabetes, according to CDC estimates. Without weight loss and moderate physical activity, 15% to 30% of these people will develop full-blown type 2 diabetes within 5 years.1 These numbers emphasize the urgent need to treat and prevent the subsequent complications, including neuropathy, associated with prediabetes. Fortunately, researchers are on their way to learning more about the relationship…
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The Four Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

Most of us associate peripheral neuropathy with diabetes. What might be a surprise is that there are three other forms of neuropathy that are also common to diabetics. Diabetic neuropathy is the result of prolonged periods of excess glucose in the blood damaging fragile nerve fibers. Hyperglycemia also damages the walls of the many blood vessels in the body, including the capillaries that provide the blood supply that supports the nervous system. Finally, high glucose levels interfere with the ability of the nerves to send signals. Taken together, this triad of damage causes first numbness, then extreme pain, in the…
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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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Diabetic Neuropathy: Temporarily Reducing Pain

Painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) can be relieved for months with a non-viral gene therapy, according to research published in the Annals of Clinical and Translational Neurology. Researchers from Northwestern Medicine administered the non-viral gene therapy or a placebo in order to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a plasmid (VM202) containing 2 human hepatocyte growth factor isoforms given by intramuscular injections in patients with PDN. There were 84 patients included in the study who were randomized to either receive injections of 8 or 16 mg VM202 per leg or placebo. Doses were administered on days zero and 14. The researchers…
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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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5 Natural Neuropathy Treatments

5 Natural Neuropathy Treatments

For those dealing with the painful effects of nerve damage, finding alternative or natural treatments can open new doors in the search for relief. While prescription medications simply mask the pain, natural neuropathy treatments often treat the underlying causes. In many cases, this can result in more lasting relief for the sufferer. Many people have experienced beneficial results by following complementary or alternative medicine. When done as a part of a multi-pronged treatment approach, natural methods have shown great promise. We’ve pulled together a list of 5 natural treatments for treating neuropathy that we’ve seen provide relief for others. Lets take a…
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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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