Orlando Peripheral Neuropathy Specialists

If you’re suffering from peripheral neuropathy, you know how painful and disabling it can be. Fortunately, there are many treatments available to help relieve the symptoms of this condition. We’ll provide an overview of the various treatments for peripheral neuropathy, including spinal cord stimulation, ketamine infusions, Qutenza® therapy, and more. Read on to learn about your options for relieving the pain of peripheral neuropathy.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy and What Are Its Symptoms?

Peripheral neuropathies are conditions that occur when the peripheral nerves—which link the brain and spinal cord to muscles, skin, and other organs—are damaged. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy vary depending on the type and extent of nerve damage but may include numbness or altered sensation in the hands and feet; burning, stabbing, or shooting pains; muscle weakness; or wasting. Some types can cause balance problems, excessive sweating, or changes in blood pressure, as well as affect autonomic functions like digesting food and controlling bladder functions. Since symptoms may not become apparent for months or years after nerve damage has occurred and due to its diverse set of potential causes, diagnosing peripheral neuropathy can be difficult. Therefore it is important to see a healthcare professional experienced in managing this complicated condition if you are experiencing unusual symptoms.

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological disorder caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system. Although it can have various causes, the primary source of nerve injury associated with peripheral neuropathy is physical traumatic events such as fractures or direct pressure to nerves, exposure to toxins and certain medications, metabolic or autoimmune diseases, or genetic conditions. Unfortunately, some cases may also remain idiopathic due to unknown causes, making diagnosis complex and treatment challenging.

Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment

Peripheral neuropathy can be treated in a variety of ways, depending on the cause and severity. Generally, neuropathic medications, such as anti-seizure drugs and antidepressants, are prescribed to relieve neuropathic pain. Interventional treatments may also be utilized to treat neuropathy, such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS). Additionally, ketamine infusions or topical medications like Qutenza have been found effective for neuropathy treatment. Physical therapy can also be used to improve strength, mobility, and flexibility.

Nerve Pain Medications

Neuropathy pain is a challenging condition to treat, but medications can offer some relief. Nerve pain medications come in a variety of forms such as topical creams, prescription drugs, and over-the-counter medications. Antidepressants are often prescribed for severe cases since their use can reduce burning sensations by blocking nerve cells from sending pain signals. Topical creams, on the other hand, are applied directly to the skin for local numbing effects. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen provide temporary relief from mild to moderate neuropathic pain associated with diabetic nerve damage or shingles.

Ketamine Infusions

Ketamine is a powerful anesthetic that has been used in medical settings since the 1960s. More recently, ketamine infusions have been used as a treatment option for chronic pain conditions like peripheral neuropathy. Ketamine works by blocking NMDA receptors in the brain, which have been found to play a role in the sensation of pain. Studies have shown that ketamine infusions can lead to significant reductions in pain levels and improved quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain conditions such as peripheral neuropathy.

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS) Therapy

Spinal cord stimulation therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves implanting electrodes in the epidural space near your spine. The electrodes send electrical pulses to the nerves in your spine to block or reduce your perception of pain signals. This type of therapy is effective at reducing chronic pain associated with peripheral neuropathy.

Qutenza® Therapy

Qutenza® (capsaicin 8% patch) is a prescription medication used to treat neuropathic pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy or postherpetic neuralgia. It works by providing extended relief from nerve pain in affected areas of the body through the topical application of a capsaicin-containing patch. The patch delivers capsaicin, which helps block pain signals sent to the brain.

How Does Qutenza® Work?

Qutenza works by using a topical patch applied directly to affected areas of skin where nerve damage has occurred. Capsaicin, an active ingredient found in chili peppers, blocks substances that carry pain signals from reaching their target neurons in the brain. This helps to reduce or even eliminate painful sensations associated with peripheral neuropathy. In addition, Qutenza can also help reduce inflammation and swelling in affected areas of the skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

What Are the Benefits of Using Qutenza?

The primary benefit of using Qutenza for treating peripheral neuropathy is its ability to provide long-term relief from nerve pain without requiring systemic medications like opioids or other drugs that can have serious side effects when taken over time. Additionally, Qutenza has been found to have fewer side effects than other treatments such as oral medications or injections—it is generally considered safe and well tolerated by most patients who use it as prescribed. Finally, because it is applied directly onto affected areas of skin rather than orally ingested or injected into muscle tissue, it allows for more targeted relief without having to worry about potential systemic side effects like nausea or dizziness commonly seen with other treatments for peripheral neuropathy.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is another treatment option for those suffering from peripheral neuropathy-related pain and disability. Physical therapy can help improve strength, mobility, and flexibility while reducing pain levels caused by nerve damage and dysfunction. Your physical therapist may also recommend exercises or stretches that target specific areas affected by nerve damage. Through regular physical therapy sessions, you can regain some lost functions and improve your overall quality of life.

Summary

As you can see, there are many potential treatments available for those suffering from peripheral neuropathy-related symptoms. Spinal cord stimulation therapy, ketamine infusions, Qutenza therapy, and physical therapy are just a few of the options available for managing this condition—and each one offers its own set of benefits depending on your individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, it’s important to discuss all available treatment options with one of our pain management doctors so that you can find a solution that works best for you and helps manage your symptoms effectively!