602-340-8686
Are you noticing numbness, prickling, or tingling in your feet or hands? Do you feel a sharp, jabbing pain, or suffer from muscle weakness? If so, you may be suffering from peripheral neuropathy.
To determine if this issue is affecting you, Dr. Michael Dershowitz of Southwest Foot Institute in Glendale and Phoenix, AZ, can help—read on to learn more.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy refers to general damage that occurs to the nerves that send messages from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These peripheral nerves are solidified in an intricate network connecting the brain to the whole body—skin, muscles, and internal organs. Damage to these nerves interrupts communication, which impairs muscle movement and the proper sensation in limbs.
What are symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy
Neuropathies occur by one of three methods:
1. Environmental factors like toxins, trauma, illness, or infection, which include:
2. Hereditary neuropathies are genetically passed from parent to child. The most common is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1 (a group of inherited diseases that damage the peripheral nerves), which refers to weakness in the legs and arms.
3. Idiopathic neuropathies is when the cause of your neuropathy is unknown.
Reducing Your Risk of Peripheral Neuropathy
Lifestyle choices are key in preventing peripheral neuropathy. Lessen your risk by:
Who should you consult?
If you'd like to learn more about Peripheral Neuropathy and how to reduce your risk, contact Dr. Michael Dershowitz of Southwest Foot Institute in Glendale and Phoenix, AZ, by calling 602-340-8686 today!