Understanding Peripheral Neuralgia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Peripheral neuralgia, also known as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that can progress over time and become more than just a minor discomfort. Understand the various symptoms, causes and treatment options for peripheral neuropathy so that you’ll know what to discuss with Dr. Ali Nairizi at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV.

Peripheral Neuralgia: What Is It?

Peripheral neuralgia or neuropathy is the sensation of tingling or near numbness in the peripheral areas of the body, namely the feet, lower legs, and hands. It can also cause involuntary twitching or cramping. It’s a sign of nerve damage in those places. Patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes or circulatory conditions often have issues with peripheral neuralgia. While it is not usually considered an urgent concern, it could become an issue if the nerve dysfunction prevents important messages from reaching the brain, such as letting you know that you have a wound or the feet are freezing.

Causes of Peripheral Neuralgia

There are three main types of neuropathy: motor (affects the movement of muscles we can control), sensory (touch, heat, cold, or pain), and autonomic neuropathy (affects the function of muscles we don’t actively control and the organs). Peripheral neuropathy is often caused by one or more of the following issues:

• Viruses like herpes zoster (better known as shingles) or HIV.
• Chronic diseases like diabetes.
• Tumors or bony growths are pressing the nerves.
• Injuries to the feet or hands.

Can Peripheral Neuralgia Be Treated?

While there may not be a permanent cure, your Reno, NV, pain doctor can treat peripheral neuropathy with non-invasive, modern solutions. They include:

• Nerve stimulation, where electrodes send pulses of energy to the nerve tissues.
• Prescription medication (anticonvulsants and antidepressants can help in some cases).
• Anti-inflammatory pain medication.
• Nerve blocking therapy.

Ask Your Doctor About Peripheral Neuralgia

If you are tired of feeling a “pins and needles” sensation in your limbs, feet, or hands, seeing if a doctor has a solution for your case is worthwhile. Contact Dr. Ali Nairizi at Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV, to talk about the treatments for peripheral neuropathy by calling (775) 384-1127.