Nerve & Disc Centers of The Midwest

Recognizing Neuropathy Signs & Symptoms in Council Bluffs, IA

If you’re experiencing unusual sensations like tingling, burning, or sharp pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet, you may have neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy. This condition affects the body’s sensory and motor nerves, often beginning in the extremities. When it progresses to impact both sensory and motor nerves, it is referred to as Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy.

Common Symptoms of Neuropathy

Neuropathy can manifest in a variety of ways, including:

  • Tingling or “Pins and Needles” Sensations – Often felt in the hands, feet, arms, or legs, this prickling sensation can worsen over time.
  • Burning Pain – Typically starting in the lower limbs, this pain may spread to the arms and hands as the condition advances.
  • Sharp, Stabbing Pains – These electric-like pains often intensify at night and can move from the feet and legs into the hands and arms.
  • Muscle Weakness & Coordination Problems – Weakness in the limbs can lead to difficulty walking, coordination issues, and even paralysis in severe cases.
  • Hypersensitivity & Skin Changes – The skin may become so sensitive that even light pressure from sheets or clothing can cause discomfort.
  • Increased Risk of Infections & Foot Ulcers – Nerve damage can impair wound healing, making infections more common.

Understanding Different Types of Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy is nerve damage that causes numbness, usually in the hands and feet. 

Common Causes: 

  • Diabetes & Pre-Diabetes:  High blood sugar damages nerves over time. 
  • Statin Medications: Used to lower cholesterol but may deplete CoQ10, affecting nerve function. 
  • Other Causes: May include chemotherapy, alcohol abuse, autoimmune diseases and vitamin deficiencies. 

Autonomic Neuropathy

When neuropathy affects the autonomic nerves, which control involuntary body functions like heart rate, digestion, and perspiration, it can lead to:

  • Low blood pressure, causing dizziness when standing up
  • Irregular heartbeat, often a rapid pulse
  • Digestive issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
  • Bladder and bowel problems, such as incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Balance and coordination difficulties

Mononeuropathy

Sometimes, neuropathy affects a single nerve, leading to mononeuropathy, which can cause:

  • Vision problems, including difficulty focusing, double vision, or eye pain
  • Localized pain in specific areas such as the shin, chest, or foot
  • Bell’s Palsy, which causes weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, leading to burning, tingling, numbness, and pain in the wrist and hand

Why It Matters

If you are experiencing abnormal pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms, legs, wrists, ankles, hands, or feet, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms, slow progression, and prevent further nerve damage. Left untreated, neuropathy can lead to balance issues, chronic pain and reduced quality of life. 

You should also see a doctor if neuropathy is interfering with your sleep, contributing to depression, or if you have a small wound on an extremity that isn’t healing properly.

Take the First Step Toward Relief Today

Don’t let neuropathy control your life—there are solutions to help you find relief and restore your mobility. At Nerve & Disc Centers of the Midwest, we specialize in non-invasive treatments designed to target nerve pain, improve circulation, and promote healing. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward living pain-free!

OFFICE HOURS


Monday
8:30am – 6:15pm


Tuesday
2:30pm – 6:15pm


Wednesday
8:30am – 6:15pm


Thursday
2:30pm – 6:15pm


Friday
8:30am – 5:15pm


Saturday & Sunday
Closed

Nerve and Disc Centers of the Midwest

20 Power Dr Suite 2, Council
Bluffs, IA 51501

(712) 366-1611