Physical Therapy Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is also known as sensorimotor neuropathy or distal symmetric neuropathy. This condition occurs when there is nerve damage to the arms or legs. The damaged nerves are not able to carry information from the brain to the spinal cord. Therapy is a great way to effectively treat this condition.

Symptoms

• Those who suffer from peripheral neuropathy may have various symptoms that will depend on which nerve is affected. Three types of nerves--sensory, motor and autonomic--may be affected by this condition. When a sensory nerve is affected there is a change in sensation that may cause nerve pain, tingling numbness, a burning sensation or a lack of coordination.
  If the motor sensors are affected there will be movement difficulties such as paralysis, falling, breathing and swallowing difficulties, cramping, twitching or uncontrollable muscles. Autonomic symptoms may include abdominal bloating, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, impotence in males or urinary incontinence.

Physical Therapy

• When physical therapy is recommended to treat peripheral neuropathy, its objective is to maintain a range of motion. Therapy may also be required to increase your mobility, function and strength. To accomplish this, your therapist may begin with progressive stretches, which will strengthen your passive range of motion. Weight training and isometric exercises can be used to increase your resistance and strengthen your muscles. It is important to continue these exercises and stretches even after you have regained your range of motion. To encourage balance and proper posture, you may be required to wear braces or splints.

  Physical therapy will help you to adjust to the symptoms that are harder to treat such as automatic function. Your therapist will show you how to change positions to avoid falling. You will also learn safety issues when walking to prevent tripping. This is important because patients with peripheral neuropathy are at a higher risk of developing new nerve injuries.

  If your motor skills are affected by this condition, your physical therapist may recommend installing railings in your home. Items in your home that you may trip over, such as loose rugs, should be removed. If your sensation has been affected, it is recommended to make certain safety precautions such as additional lighting in your home, including a night light if needed. Someone that you live with should test the water temperature before you take a bath. Your physical therapist may also recommend protective shoes such as high-top gym shoes and shoes with a grip. High-heel shoes or open-toe shoes should not be worn.