Overview
Focal neuropathy is a common form of neuropathy that refers to the compression of specific nerves. This compression can be a result of pressure, prolonged positions, or overuse of a certain limb. Oftentimes, focal neuropathy is related to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar neuropathy. As with any diagnosis, it is very important that patients educate themselves on their condition to ensure they are taking the necessary steps towards recovery. Knowing the ins and outs of your condition will help you better understand your condition and determine what the best course of action is. If you’d like to learn more about this condition, this guide will provide you with information about focal neuropathy as well as causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and surgical options.
Causes of Focal Neuropathy
Focal neuropathy occurs when nerve cells are damaged or destroyed. The most common cause of this condition is injury, such as accidents, falls, or repetitive motion stress. In addition, other causes that can cause this condition include:
- Autoimmune conditions and infections, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, herpes, syphilis, Lyme disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
- Systemic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disorders, hormonal imbalances, and some types of cancer
- Vascular disorders
- Metabolic disorders
- Improper levels of vitamins E, B1, B6, B9, B12, and niacin
- Some medications, including chemotherapy exposure to industrial chemicals, solvents, and heavy metals like mercury and lead alcoholism
Treatment Options
Focal neuropathy treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the nerve damage. It is entirely possible that the affected body parts get better on their own without the need for treatment. The focus of treatment is to manage the underlying cause of focal neuropathy while also treating and stopping the nerve damage from progressing. The following can help to manage symptoms:
- Diagnostic Imagery. Our doctors will administer an MRI, X-Ray, or EMG/NCV to determine the cause of the pain.
- Conservative Treatment. The doctor will create a conservative treatment plan consisting of physical therapy, pain medications, and/or a TENs unit.
- Injections. The doctor will administer steroid injections at the site of the neuropathic pain.
- Ablation Therapy. Ablation therapy can help to block irregular pain signals from being sent to the brain.
Surgical Options
In rare cases, conservative treatments for focal neuropathy can be ineffective or do not provide enough relief. If this is the case you may want to consider surgery. BEST Health System takes pride in its minimally invasive procedures. Our board-certified surgeons employ a less than one-inch incision to access the target area.
BEST Health System offers patients struggling with proximal neuropathy symptoms spinal cord stimulators. If you have any questions feel free to contact BEST Health System today to schedule an appointment.
Symptoms
Symptoms for focal neuropathy can differ among patients depending on the nerves that are affected or any underlying conditions the patient already has. Furthermore, the patient’s lifestyle and day-to-day activities are other factors in which symptoms may vary. Generally, symptoms may include:
- Loss of sensation
- Tingling and burning
- Lack of feeling, numbness
- Lack of coordination
- Loss of reflexes
- Muscle twitching, cramps, or spasms weakness
- Pain
- Muscle wasting
- Difficulty moving, paralysis
FAQs
Can I hold off on getting treatment for focal neuropathy?
As with any condition, you should never hold off on getting treatment. In addition, if focal neuropathy is left untreated, it can cause irreversible damage to your body. It is crucial to start treatment immediately.
What is the best treatment option for focal neuropathy?
There isn’t one single form of treatment that is better than the rest. The effectiveness of a treatment depends solely on the type of condition you have, your medical history, and the severity of your condition.
Will focal neuropathy be covered by my insurance provider?
We accept most insurance plans at BEST Health System. We look forward to speaking with you if you would like to learn more about BEST and find out if you are covered with us.