Understanding Neuropathic Deficits

Neuropathic deficits might sound like a complex term, so let’s make it simple.
Our nervous system regulates all sensation and feeling. This system like any other can at times go haywire for several reasons. When that happens, to let you know something is wrong it will attempt to communicate with you in different ways.

What are common signs of a nerve injury?

When a nerve gets injured, it starts sending signals to the brain to alert it that something significant is happening. These signals can present as:

• Pins and needles
• Tingling or numbness
• Burning
• Stabbing or shooting pain

These symptoms can occur anywhere in the body, depending on the affected area.

For example, if a nerve in the cervical spine (neck) gets injured, symptoms may appear in the upper extremity – such as the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist and hands.

Similarly, an injury in the lower back can affect the lower extremities – including the core, glutes, hips, knees, ankles and feet.

What causes a nerve injury?

A nerve can be injured in multiple ways – from a complex neurological condition to simple everyday activities.

A very common scenario is when someone lifts something heavy at work. Excessive weight can exceed what your tissues can tolerate, causing a disc or joint to bulge or shift out of alignment. This can put direct pressure on a nerve and cause neuropathic symptoms.

It is important to note that sometimes, due to lack of physical activity, the threshold of injury decreased; even simple tasks can trigger symptoms

Common examples include walking the dog, cleaning the house, sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time. Sometimes, even a simple sneeze could be enough to trigger such events when the body is weak and unprepared!

Why is it important to investigate nerve problems?

In some cases, neuropathic symptoms can resolve on its own, but they can also return in later in life, or progressively worsen over time.

Whatever the case might be, investigating the root cause is crucial.

Unlike muscles, tendons or ligaments, nerves have limited healing capacities. For example, a partially torn muscle can repair itself by scar tissue and still function, but a damaged nerve can continue to misfire permanently.

The longer that the nerve remains compressed or irritated, the greater the risk of long-term damage. Timely investigation, decompression and care will safeguard the nerve.

What is the classic approach in modern society and is it right for you?

A common approach for neuropathic problems is to contact the doctor. Often this treatment involves some medication designed to manage the symptoms.

These drugs may include painkillers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants which aim to work by dampening the nerve activity. While these can help to mask discomfort, they often focus on symptom control rather than addressing the underlying cause.

So, if you are looking for a more proactive approach, one that goes beyond masking pain, you might ask “Can I do something else to address the real problem?”

The answer is yes! Chiropractic care can help.

How can chiropractic care help you with a neuropathic deficit?

A chiropractor can assess and identify the potential root cause of your symptoms.
At TOPCHIRO, your chiropractic consultation will include neurological, orthopaedic, and physical examination tests to accurately determine the cause and develop a personalised care plan tailored to your needs. If clinically indicated, we can also take x-rays to guide our assessment.

Initially, chiropractic care may help alleviate your symptoms, but with continued, ongoing care, it can also provide optimal function, improved performance, and reduce the risk of future recurrence.

Dr. Paris Georgiadis