Categorized by burning, tingling, or numbness in the hands, legs, or feet, neuropathy occurs when nerves located between the brain and spine are damaged. While the causes of neuropathy vary widely, some of the most common catalysts include diabetes, chemotherapy, genetic predisposition, and alcohol use disorder.

Unfortunately, an estimated 20 million people in the United States suffer from neuropathy—and this number is likely higher due to undiagnosed cases. The good news is that symptoms of neuropathy can be easily managed thanks to physical therapy.

Will Physical Therapy Help Neuropathy in Older Patients?

When it comes to managing neuropathy, physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to mitigate symptoms—especially in older patients. Through a multidisciplinary approach to neuropathy, physical therapists can help patients stimulate nerve regeneration, promote blood flow, ease tension, improve balance, and reduce pain.

Continue reading to learn more about how physical therapy can help neuropathy.

Micro-Vas Treatments

This pain-free, 15-minute treatment helps decrease neuropathy symptoms by stimulating blood flow and nerve regeneration. During micro-vas treatments, electrodes are placed on the affected areas to increase velocity of blood flow into the extremities affected by neuropathy.

Manual Foot Massage and Soft Tissue Release

Similarly, the purpose of manual foot massage and soft tissue release is to improve blood flow and sensation. With special training in neuropathy massage. Physical therapists can help reduce a patient’s symptoms in just a few appointments.

Spinal Decompression

With the help of a chiropractor, light spinal adjustments can help ease tension and pain related to neuropathy. In particular, spinal decompression improves neuropathy symptoms by increasing space for the nerves as they exit the lumbar and cervical spinal segments.

Balance Training

Balance training has been proven to help the brain communicate with the nerves in your hands and feet that prevent falls. It also strengthens muscles and improves flexibility to prevent the neuropathy from progressing.

Acupuncture

A tried-and-true treatment, acupuncture has been proven to improve burning, tingling, and numbness in the hands, legs, and feet. It has also been known to stimulate nerve regeneration to promote blood flow.

Visit AllCure for Help with Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be an extremely uncomfortable condition to live with, especially in its progressive stages. Fortunately, physical therapy has been proven to be an exceptional tool for reducing its symptoms.

If you or someone you know is struggling with neuropathy, don’t hesitate to reach out! Our team of licensed physical therapists can help you overcome the symptoms of neuropathy and enjoy a pain-free existence.