Physical Therapy Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition caused by damage to the nerves that travel through your arms and legs to deliver feeling to your hands and feet. For some patients, physical therapy is an effective treatment for certain effects of peripheral neuropathy.

Function

• Physical therapy uses a number of techniques to reduce certain symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, including pain, weakness, numbness, difficulty walking, decreased stamina, decreased range of motion, impaired balance, and troubles that arise from performing tasks like walking up stairs or getting into bed.

Types

• Physical therapy treatment methods for peripheral neuropathy include electrical stimulation, treatment through vibrations or ultrasound, photo or light therapy, heat or cold therapy, exercises, and practicing everyday activities.

Access

• In order to obtain physical therapy treatment for peripheral neuropathy, you will need to have a prescription that shows the treatment is medically necessary and beneficial. Normally, this is obtained from a neurologist.

Features

• Before your first physical therapy treatment for peripheral neuropathy, you will likely meet with your physical therapist who will ask you questions, discuss your condition, and perform tests to determine your needs. Throughout your treatment, your physical therapist will communicate with the prescribing doctor about your progress so that together efforts are coordinated to ensure you receive the best care.

Considerations

• Although physical therapy treatment for neuropathy can greatly improve your quality of life, it is not a cure for your condition. If the damage that causes the condition continues to progress, you may require additional treatments in the future.