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Neuropathy Specialist

Neurological Institute of Los Angeles Our Services Neuropathy

Neurological Institute of Los Angeles

A Private Medical Practice located in multiple locations in Los Angeles, CA

Neuropathy can cause stabbing pain or burning and tingling sensations, but treatments can manage your symptoms and provide pain relief. At the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles, with locations in Beverly Grove and throughout Los Angeles, and Glendale, California, offer advanced treatments for adults with neuropathy. Call the office or book an appointment online today for personalized neuropathy treatment.

Neuropathy Q&A

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is nerve damage. This condition is often called peripheral neuropathy because it affects the peripheral nervous system, which includes the nerves outside of your brain and spinal cord. 

There are several types of peripheral nerves that have different functions:

Sensory nerves

Sensory nerves send information about sensation, such as pain, touch, and temperature, to your brain. 

Motor nerves

Motor nerves send signals from your brain that control muscle movement. 

Autonomic nerves

Autonomic nerves manage functions that are beyond your control, like digestion, heart rate, and blood pressure. 

Neuropathy can affect any type of nerve. You may have neuropathy in one nerve, two or more nerves in different areas, or many nerves. 

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Symptoms of neuropathy vary based on the type of nerve or nerves affected. Common signs and symptoms of neuropathy include:

  • Extreme sensitivity to touch
  • Sharp, stabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
  • Lack of coordination 
  • Muscle weakness
  • Paralysis
  • Dizziness from changes in blood pressure
  • Bowel, bladder, or digestive problems
  • Excessive sweating or an inability to sweat
  • Intolerance to heat

Early diagnosis and treatment give you the best chance of controlling neuropathy symptoms, so call the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles as soon as you suspect you may have neuropathy.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

First, your provider at Neurological Institute of Los Angeles performs a physical and neurological exam and thoroughly reviews your medical history. 

You may need one or more tests, such as:

  • Blood tests
  • Imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  • Nerve function tests, like electromyography (EMG)
  • Nerve or skin biopsy

There are many possible causes of neuropathy, including diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and infections like Lyme disease. These tests help determine the specific cause of your MS so your neurologist can recommend the best course of treatment. 

How is neuropathy treated?

Addressing the underlying condition is usually the first line of treatment for neuropathy. Your doctor also develops a personalized treatment plan to relieve neuropathy symptoms. Depending on your needs, treatment may include:

  • Medications to relieve pain
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
  • Plasma exchange and intravenous immune globulin
  • Physical therapy
  • Surgery

For expert care of neuropathy, call the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles, or book an appointment online today.