Neuropathy Treatment in Dallas-Fort Worth, DFW, TX

Spine Surgery / Conditions We Treat / Neuropathy

Page Updated: November 25, 2024

Neuropathy can significantly impact your daily life, causing discomfort, chronic pain, and limitations in movement or sensation. At DFW Spine Institute, we understand the complexities of neuropathic pain and believe that each patient deserves a personalized approach. Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, and the greater DFW, TX area, we offer a wide range of advanced treatment options tailored to address the specific type and cause of your neuropathy. Our goal is to create a customized plan that alleviates your symptoms and improves your overall quality of life, helping you regain comfort and function.

What is Neuropathy?
Symptoms of Neuropathy
What Causes Neuropathy?
Health Conditions Associated with Neuropathy
Treatment for Neuropathy
FAQs About Neuropathy

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that happens when the nerves in your body are damaged. This can affect any type of nerve, whether it’s one that controls movement, senses feeling, or helps manage automatic functions like your heartbeat or digestion. When nerves are damaged, they might send signals of pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness, even if there’s no injury or reason for the pain. It’s more common than many people think—studies suggest it affects around 4% to 12% of people, but experts believe that the true number might be higher.¹ Neuropathy can be hard to diagnose because the pain may come from different sources, but understanding what type of nerve pain you have is important for finding the right treatment and getting relief.

Symptoms of Neuropathy

Symptoms of neuropathy can vary depending on the nerves affected, but many people experience pain, discomfort, or changes in sensation in different parts of the body. Common symptoms include:

Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, legs, or arms
Burning or sharp pain, often described as a “pins and needles” feeling
Muscle weakness that may affect your grip or ability to walk
Balance issues or loss of coordination, leading to difficulty walking or standing
Fatigue or a feeling of heaviness in the limbs
Brain fog or difficulty focusing, which can occur alongside physical symptoms
Sensitivity to temperature changes or an inability to feel them properly²

These symptoms can impact daily activities and quality of life, making it important to seek professional care for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What Causes Neuropathy?

Neuropathy can develop due to a wide range of factors. In many cases, it’s associated with another health condition, while in others, the exact cause may be difficult to pinpoint. Some of the most common causes include:

Diabetes: High blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves, making diabetes the most frequent cause of neuropathy.
Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjögren’s syndrome can cause inflammation that harms nerves.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of essential vitamins, such as B1, B6, B12, and vitamin E, are known to impact nerve health.
Chronic Alcohol Use: Long-term heavy drinking can result in nerve damage and symptoms of neuropathy.
Toxins and Chemical Exposure: Exposure to heavy metals (like lead or mercury) and certain chemicals, including those used in chemotherapy, can damage nerves.
Infections: Illnesses such as HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease, hepatitis C, shingles, and Epstein-Barr virus are known to contribute to nerve damage.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can lead to nerve damage if left unmanaged.
Trauma or Pressure: Repetitive movements, injuries, or conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome can compress or injure nerves.
Genetic Disorders: Inherited conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease may lead to neuropathy.
Kidney Disease and Bone Marrow Disorders: These conditions can affect nerve health, leading to neuropathy symptoms.^3,4

In some instances, the cause of neuropathy remains unknown even after thorough evaluation. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for developing a targeted treatment plan.

Health Conditions Associated with Neuropathy

Neuropathy is often linked to other underlying health conditions. Identifying and managing these conditions is crucial to alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected. Here are some conditions commonly associated with neuropathy:

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS): EDS is a genetic disorder that affects the connective tissues supporting the skin, joints, and blood vessels. There are 13 different types of EDS, each with its own symptoms, but common signs include hypermobility, tissue fragility, pain, and cardiovascular dysfunction. Even within the same type of EDS, symptoms can vary, making a personalized treatment approach essential.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), CRPS is a chronic pain condition that typically develops after injury or trauma. It causes intense, continuous pain that may seem disproportionate to the initial injury, along with skin color changes, swelling, and muscle spasms. Early intervention with physical therapy, medications, and nerve blocks can help manage symptoms, and advanced treatments like ketamine therapy may benefit patients with severe cases.
Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, tenderness, and heightened sensitivity to touch. Many patients also experience fatigue, sleep disturbances, and “fibro fog” (cognitive difficulties). Though its exact cause is unknown, it is believed to involve abnormal pain processing by the central nervous system. Fibromyalgia predominantly affects women and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
Rheumatic Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and osteoarthritis fall under this category. These autoimmune and inflammatory diseases can cause joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation, which may lead to nerve damage. Treatments often include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes aimed at improving mobility and reducing symptoms.
Sjögren’s Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder, Sjögren’s syndrome occurs when the immune system attacks glands that produce tears and saliva, leading to dry eyes and dry mouth. It can also cause fatigue, joint pain, and affect other organs such as the lungs and kidneys. Neuropathy can occur as the disease progresses, making proper management important.

By understanding the connection between these health conditions and neuropathy, patients and healthcare providers can work together to manage symptoms effectively and improve overall well-being.

Treatment for Neuropathy

At DFW Spine Institute, we offer a range of treatments designed to alleviate neuropathic pain and improve nerve function. Each treatment plan is customized to address the specific type and cause of neuropathy a patient may be experiencing. Available treatment options include:

Physical Therapy: Personalized exercise programs focus on strengthening the muscles around the affected areas, enhancing mobility, and reducing nerve strain. Physical therapy can also help improve balance and coordination, which are often impacted by neuropathy.
Medication Management: Depending on the severity and type of neuropathy, medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or specific nerve pain medications may be recommended to help manage chronic pain and reduce inflammation.
Nerve Blocks: An anesthetic is injected near specific nerves to temporarily block pain signals, providing significant relief for patients with severe, localized neuropathic pain.
Ketamine Infusion Therapy: For patients experiencing severe, treatment-resistant neuropathic pain, ketamine infusions may be effective. Ketamine can help reduce pain intensity, particularly when other treatments have not provided adequate relief.
Rhizotomy – Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This minimally invasive procedure uses radiofrequency waves to deactivate specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals. It can provide long-term relief for patients with chronic neuropathic pain when other methods have not been effective.
Magnetic Peripheral Nerve Stimulation: A non-invasive treatment option that uses magnetic fields to stimulate peripheral nerves, helping to reduce pain and improve nerve function. This therapy is suitable for patients seeking non-surgical, medication-free options for managing neuropathic pain.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in pain perception. It is particularly beneficial for patients with neuropathic pain that has not responded to traditional treatments, offering a medication-free option for pain relief.
Learn more about TMS
Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS): SCS involves implanting a small device near the spinal cord that sends mild electrical pulses to disrupt pain signals before they reach the brain. This treatment can provide significant relief for chronic neuropathic pain and is often considered for patients who have not achieved adequate pain control through other methods.

Each treatment is tailored to meet the needs of the individual, ensuring that patients receive the most effective and appropriate care for their neuropathy.

FAQs about Neuropathy

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

Neuropathy is diagnosed through a combination of medical history review, physical exams, and diagnostic tests. These may include nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG) to measure electrical activity in muscles, and blood tests to identify underlying conditions such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Imaging studies, like MRI or CT scans, may also be used if a physical cause is suspected.

Can neuropathy be cured?

While some causes of neuropathy can be treated and even reversed, such as those due to vitamin deficiencies or certain infections, many types of neuropathy, especially those related to chronic conditions like diabetes, may not be fully curable. However, treatments are available to manage symptoms and slow progression, helping to improve the quality of life.

What are the treatment options for neuropathy?

Treatment for neuropathy depends on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medication management (such as pain relievers or nerve-specific medications), nerve blocks, and advanced therapies like ketamine infusion or magnetic peripheral nerve stimulation. A tailored treatment plan can help alleviate symptoms and improve nerve function.

What can I do to manage neuropathy symptoms at home?

Managing neuropathy at home includes maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins, regular exercise to promote nerve function and blood circulation, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Keeping blood sugar levels under control, particularly for diabetic patients, is also crucial. Discussing home care strategies with your healthcare provider can help maximize your treatment results.

Is neuropathy the same as nerve damage?

Neuropathy refers to nerve damage or dysfunction and is often used interchangeably with the term “nerve damage.” It encompasses various types of nerve issues that can affect different parts of the body. For example, peripheral neuropathy specifically impacts the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, while other types, like autonomic or cranial neuropathy, affect different nerve systems.

What happens if neuropathy is left untreated?

If neuropathy is not treated, symptoms can worsen over time, leading to more severe pain, increased numbness, muscle weakness, or even loss of mobility. In some cases, untreated neuropathy may result in complications such as infections or balance issues, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

Can lifestyle changes help reduce neuropathy symptoms?

Yes, lifestyle changes can play a significant role in managing neuropathy. Eating a balanced diet with sufficient vitamins, exercising regularly to improve circulation, avoiding excessive alcohol, and managing conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues can all help reduce symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.

When should I see a doctor for neuropathy symptoms?

You should see a doctor if you experience persistent numbness, tingling, burning pain, or weakness in your hands, feet, or other parts of your body. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing further nerve damage.

Contact Us

If neuropathy is affecting your daily life and you’re seeking relief, the specialists at DFW Spine Institute are here to help. Serving Dallas-Fort Worth, and the greater DFW, TX area, our team offers advanced and personalized treatments to manage neuropathic pain and improve nerve function. We will work with you to diagnose the root cause of your symptoms and develop a customized plan to provide effective relief. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable and active lifestyle.

¹ Varrassi G, Tamburin S, Zis P, Guardamagna VA, Paladini A, Rekatsina M. What’s New in Neuropathy? Cureus. 2023 Sep 9;15(9):e44952. doi: 10.7759/cureus.44952. PMID: 37818524; PMCID: PMC10561699. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10561699/. Accessed October 23 2024.
² Yale Medicine. Peripheral Neuropathy. Available: https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy. Accessed October 23, 2024.
³ National Library of Medicine. Peripheral Neuropathy. Available: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000593.htm. Accessed October 24, 2024.
⁴ Hammi C, Yeung B. Neuropathy. [Updated 2022 Oct 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542220/. Accessed October 23, 2024.

The Doctors at DFW Laser Spine Institute have either authored or reviewed and approved this content.