Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy Program

An estimated 20 million Americans experience the symptoms of neuropathy each year. The symptoms of neuropathy can be disruptive to everyday life, and include numbness, burning, tingling, pain, and weakness. These symptoms may contribute towards larger limitations, such as balance deficits, difficulty walking, or an overall decrease in quality of life. Many individuals affected by neuropathy fear that management of their symptoms is their only option, but that is not always the case.

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

Physical neuropathy has many causes. There’s even a form of idiopathic neuropathy, where there is no known cause. Other causes of physical neuropathy include:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Diabetes
• Hereditary disorders
• Medication
• Chemo-induced
• Exposure to toxic chemicals
• Inflammatory infections
• Poor nutrition
• And more

Why Refer to a Physical Therapist?

The symptoms of neuropathy go well beyond just those regarding poor sensation and pain. Neuropathy often leads to balance problems, falls, and increased difficulty with walking. When choosing physical therapy for neuropathy, you’ll receive a comprehensive neuropathy program to help alleviate the debilitating symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy. Utilizing cutting-edge technology in conjunction with clinical expertise, our clinicians are able to help modulate symptoms while simultaneously improving strength, balance, and mobility. The goals of physical therapy for neuropathy are:

• Relief of pain, tingling, numbness or discomfort in the limbs
• Improved muscle strength and function where weakness has developed.
• Better balance and reduced fall risk, since neuropathy often affects sensation and proprioception.
• Improved mobility, range of motion, and ability to do daily tasks (walking, stairs, etc.).
• Enhanced circulation, which can help nerve health and recovery.
• Use of modalities like nerve gliding, electrical stimulation, targeted exercises to address nerve-health and function.

Physical Therapy for Neuropathy:

Our physical therapists provide evaluation and treatment sessions which include:

• Assessment of strength, sensation, balance and gait functioning
• Exercise prescription including both aerobic activity (walking, cycling), strength training, balance/coordination drills
• Gait Training If balance is compromised or risk of falling is high, therapists can train you in safe walking, and the proper use of canes or other assistive devices
• Modalities: May use electrical stimulation (e.g., TENS), Redlight Therapy, heat/cold, massage, and other therapeutic techniques to manage pain or support nerve-/muscle-function.

Seek Physical Therapy For Neuropathy at IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery!

At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, we will work with you to educate you on your peripheral neuropathy, find solutions to improve your quality of life, and get you moving pain-free again! Our movement specialists will teach you pain management strategies to reduce your pain and, in many cases, reverse your symptoms completely. Contact us today to schedule your appointment for physical therapy for neuropathy and start the journey to a better life today!

Meet Our IMPACT Clinical Team

Tim Rylander and Kamila Rylander share over two decades of experience specifically working with individuals with movement dysfunction. They hold advanced certifications as well as advanced training in treatment techniques, such as vestibular rehabilitation, ASTYM®, and manual therapy. Tim is currently a national instructor for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and has been an adjunct professor at the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Governors State University for over a decade, teaching courses in clinical neuroscience, theories of motor control and motor learning, and exercise physiology. Both Tim and Kamila bring an extraordinary depth of clinical knowledge to their work, along with an eclectic, compassionate model of care providing the highest level of service to everyone they work with.