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Dallas Peripheral Nerve Disorders Treatment

Treating Nerve Conditions Outside of the Brain & Spinal Cord

While the brain and spinal cord act as the control center for the nervous system, nerves can be found all over the body. Nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord are known as peripheral nerves. Like the central nervous systems, peripheral nerves can be damaged. Conditions of the peripheral nerves are called peripheral nerve disorders (PND).

There are many different kinds of peripheral nerve disorders. They can be caused by aging, infections, alcoholism diabetes, certain kinds of medications, tumors, and trauma. While not all PNDs can be cured, there are several treatments designed to help patients manage the symptoms so they can live comfortably.

Symptoms of PND

There are three types of peripheral nerves: sensory nerves, motor nerves, and autonomic nerves. Sensory nerves are your “touch” senses, they are what allow your skin to feel things. Motor nerves are located in the nerves. Motor nerve conditions can cause aches, pains, muscle twitching, and cramps. Finally, the autonomic nerves are the nerves connecting the internal organs. These nerves can affect blood pressure, the digestive process, body temperature, and more.

Symptoms of PNDs can vary depending on which nerves are affected. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Pain or an abnormal feeling when touching things
  • Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscle twitching and fatigue
  • Cramps
  • Excess sweating
  • Constipation
  • Stomach pains
  • Abnormal blood pressure

Treating the Underlying Conditions

Most PNDs are caused by another underlying condition, so treatment is usually focused on these conditions rather than the PND. For instance, if diabetes is the cause of the PND, then your doctor will help you with better diabetes management. There are several treatments that can help with the symptoms, including pain medications, ergonomic casts, chiropractic treatments, and surgery.

For more information bout peripheral nerve disorders and treatment at Methodist Moody Brain and Spine Institute, call us at (214) 948-2076.