Peripheral Neuropathy

Symptoms of Neuropathy in Fort Collins, CO

• Tingling Sensations: Many people report tingling in their extremities, often described as a pins-and-needles or prickling feeling.
• Burning Pain: Burning pain usually starts in the lower limbs and gradually extends to the arms and hands as the condition progresses.
• Sharp, Stabbing Pains: Patients may experience sharp, stabbing pains, typically worse in the evening. Initially, these sensations manifest in the feet and legs, but as the condition advances, the "electric-like" pain spreads to the hands and arms.
• Muscle Weakness and Coordination Issues: Muscle weakness and coordination problems can develop, sometimes leading to limb paralysis.
• Foot Ulcers and Skin Infections: Patients with peripheral neuropathy are at increased risk for developing foot ulcers and skin infections due to nerve damage.
• Dysesthesia: Neuropathy can evolve into dysesthesia, affecting touch sensation and causing tingling and burning sensations. Skin sensitivity may become so heightened that even light pressure from sheets or towels can cause discomfort.

Autonomic Neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy affects the automatic nerves responsible for vital bodily functions such as breathing, perspiration, and heart rate regulation. When these nerves are impacted, patients may experience:

• Low Blood Pressure: Leading to dizziness upon standing.
• Rapid Heartbeat: An accelerated heart rate.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive discomfort.
• Difficulty Swallowing: Impaired swallowing.
• Balance and Coordination Problems: Issues with balance.
• Digestive Issues: Including diarrhea.
• Bladder and Bowel Problems: Difficulty emptying the bladder and bowel incontinence.

Mononeuropathy

Mononeuropathy affects a single nerve, leading to specific symptoms such as:

• Eye Problems: Including focus issues, double vision, and eye pain.
• Localized Pain: Pain in specific areas such as the shin, chest, or foot, and conditions like Bell's Palsy (facial nerve disorder) and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (causing tingling, burning, and pain in the joints).

If you are experiencing abnormal pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, legs, wrists, ankles, hands, or feet, it's crucial to consult a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis can help manage the condition and potentially prevent further damage. Additionally, seek medical attention if you encounter sleep disturbances, symptoms of depression, or if a small cut on an extremity is slow to heal. The team at Brave Roots Chiropractic in Fort Collins, CO, is dedicated to providing support and relief for these concerns.