Peripheral Neuropathy – signs, symptoms and treatment

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting both adults and children. It involves damage to the peripheral nerves—the nerves that connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These nerves are responsible for transmitting signals related to sensation, movement, and bodily functions, and when they are damaged, it can lead to a variety of symptoms that affect daily life.

For most people peripheral neuropathy is temporary and treatable.  Identifying the underlying cause is key to treatment and resolution.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves. This network of nerves controls everything from how we move our muscles to how we feel sensations like touch and pain. When these nerves become damaged, they can’t effectively transmit signals, leading to symptoms that range from mild discomfort to severe pain and mobility issues.

While peripheral neuropathy is often associated with adults—particularly those with diabetes, autoimmune conditions, or chronic infections—it can also impact children, though less frequently. The causes and symptoms can vary, but it’s important to address them early to prevent further nerve damage and improve quality of life.

How Does Peripheral Neuropathy Impact Adults and Children?

In adults, peripheral neuropathy is often linked to conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, infections, toxin exposure, or traumatic injuries. It tends to progress slowly, starting with tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, and may lead to severe pain, muscle weakness, and loss of coordination. If left untreated, neuropathy can significantly impact mobility and independence, making daily tasks more difficult.

In children, peripheral neuropathy is less common but can occur due to nutrient deficiencies, genetic disorders, infections, or autoimmune conditions. Early symptoms can include weakness, trouble walking, or unusual sensations in the limbs.  

Common Signs and Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can affect sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves, leading to a wide range of symptoms. These may include:

– Tingling, numbness, or “pins and needles” sensations, typically in the hands or feet.

– Burning, stabbing, or shooting pain that may worsen at night.

– Muscle weakness or cramping, especially in the legs, leading to difficulty walking or running.

– Loss of coordination and balance, making falls more common.

– Sensitivity to touch, where even light pressure can cause pain or discomfort

– Digestive issues, blood pressure irregularities, or problems with sweating if the autonomic nerves are affected.

The Gut Health Connection: How Dysbiosis May Contribute

Gut health is increasingly recognised as a major factor in overall health, including nerve function. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, can impact nutrient absorption, immune response, and inflammation, all of which are key in preventing or exacerbating peripheral neuropathy.

• Nutrient deficiencies caused by poor absorption due to gut imbalances can directly lead to nerve damage. For example, deficiencies in vitamins like B12, B6, folate, and zinc are well-known contributors to neuropathy.

• Chronic inflammation linked to gut issues can further damage peripheral nerves. A leaky gut (intestinal permeability) can trigger an immune response that attacks the nervous system.

• The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system between the gut and nervous system, can also be disrupted, leading to issues with nerve signalling and repair.

Maintaining a healthy gut through a balanced diet, probiotic-rich foods, and addressing underlying gut imbalances can be a critical step in both preventing and managing peripheral neuropathy.

How a Naturopath Can Help Manage Peripheral Neuropathy

A naturopath takes a holistic approach to health, aiming to identify and address the root causes of peripheral neuropathy rather than just treating the symptoms. Here’s how a naturopath can help:

1. Nutrient Testing and Supplementation: Peripheral neuropathy is often linked to nutrient deficiencies, particularly in vitamins like B12, B6, folate, and vitamin E. A naturopath can run specific tests to check for deficiencies and create a personalized supplementation plan to restore these essential nutrients. 

It is essential to test because excess B6 can also cause Peripheral neuropathy

2. Gut Health Testing and Support: Since poor gut health can contribute to neuropathy, a naturopath may recommend microbiome testing to assess for dysbiosis or malabsorption issues. They can then suggest dietary changes, probiotics, and natural remedies to restore gut balance, improving nutrient absorption and reducing inflammation.

3. Herbal and Natural Remedies: Naturopaths often use herbal medicines to support nerve health and reduce inflammation. For example, herbs like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce nerve pain and protect against further damage.

4. Dietary Changes: A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet can go a long way in managing peripheral neuropathy. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can support nerve repair and reduce inflammation.

5. Lifestyle Recommendations: A naturopath can provide guidance on other lifestyle factors that impact nerve health, such as improving sleep quality, reducing stress, and incorporating regular exercise to enhance circulation and nerve function.

B6 and the link with peripheral neuropathy.

Excess vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) can indeed be linked to peripheral neuropathy. Although B6 is essential for nerve health, too much of it can have toxic effects, leading to nerve damage and the development of peripheral neuropathy.

The recommended upper limit for B6 intake is 100 mg per day for adults. When taken in excess, particularly from supplements, it can cause symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and even burning pain in the extremities, mimicking the very deficiency it’s meant to prevent. This form of neuropathy from B6 toxicity is usually reversible once B6 intake is reduced.

A naturopath can help by identifying potential sources of excess B6 (like overuse of supplements) and advising on how to safely correct the imbalance while addressing any symptoms through a comprehensive approach, including dietary adjustments and natural remedies to support nerve healing.

Peripheral neuropathy can affect people of all ages, and addressing it early is key to preventing long-term damage. Whether due to nutrient deficiencies, gut health issues, or other underlying causes, a naturopath can provide a comprehensive and natural approach to managing this condition. Through testing, dietary interventions, and natural therapies, naturopathy offers a path to improved nerve health and overall well-being.

Additional support for Peripheral Neuropathy

Buteyko Breathing

Buteyko breathing exercises focus on improving oxygen flow throughout the body, supporting healing by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation and improving circulation.

Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on method that focuses on balancing the craniosacral system, which includes the membranes and fluids surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It may help alleviate nerve-related pain by reducing tension in the central nervous system, allowing for better nerve communication and function.

If you would like to know more about how the practitioners at Elemental Health can help in the treatment Peripheral Neuropathy book a discovery call today.