Neuropathy Specialist

Neuropathy is the name given to any condition that affects the regular activity of your nerves. Neuropathy affects over 25% of Americans and that number more than doubles for those with diabetes. Call or make an appointment online with one of the specialists at The Nexus Pain Center in Columbus or LaGrange, Georgia, for relief from feelings of numbness, prickling, or muscle weakness.

Neuropathy Q & A

What is neuropathy?
Your brain and spinal cord make up your central nervous system, which uses your peripheral nervous system to send information to the rest of your body. When the cells get damaged or destroyed, this communication system gets warped, resulting in pain and numbness, as well as muscle and organ damage.

The most common cause of neuropathy is diabetes. Other sources include:

• Traumatic injury
• Infection
• Metabolic problems
• Inherited causes
• Exposure to toxins

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

Diagnosis at The Nexus Pain Center begins with a review of your medical history and symptoms. The doctor may then order blood tests to look for the cause of your nerve damage.

Other tests often include:

Electromyography: checks muscle activity
Nerve conduction studies: shows how fast signals travel along your nerves
Nerve biopsy: allows for an examination of a sample of your nerve under a microscope
Neurological exams help confirm a diagnosis of neuropathy.

How is neuropathy treated?

If your neuropathy results from diabetes, it’s crucial that you maintain control over your blood sugar. However, the doctors at the Nexus Pain Clinic also have several options available, including:

Spinal Cord Stimulator

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) applies a continuous low-voltage electrical current to your spinal cord to block pain and offer relief. There are three types of SCS devices, conventional, radiofrequency, and rechargeable.

Conventional devices require little maintenance or effort. However, minor surgery is the only way to replace the power source.

Radiofrequency devices require you to wear an external power source that activates stimulation. They’re best for extreme pain, as they sustain high output over long periods.

The newest type of SCS devices are rechargeable. These devices last longer than a conventional system. However, you’re responsible for recharging the power source when depleted.

Ganglion blocks

Ganglion blocks are injections of medication into the part of your sympathetic nervous system known as the stellate ganglion, which is located on either side of your voice box.

Lumbar sympathetic blocks

Lumbar sympathetic blocks are injections of a steroid medication and local anesthetic into your sympathetic nerves located on both sides of your lower spine.

For relief from tingling, muscle spasms, or other neuropathy-related symptoms, call or make an appointment online with the specialists at The Nexus Pain Center in Columbus or LaGrange, Georgia, today.