Neurological Balance and Medical Disorders

Guide

Peripheral Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms & Rehab

Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team

Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board – Doctor of Therapy Rehab Division

Last updated: June 2025

All medical content on this page has been reviewed and approved by licensed Doctors on the DrSensory Clinical Review Board. Our reviewers follow strict editorial standards and ensure alignment with current APTA guidelines, evidence-based practice, and orthopedic rehabilitation protocols.

14 min read

Peripheral Neuropathy: Understanding Symptoms, Causes & Therapy for Nerve Damage

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves—those outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves control sensory, motor, and autonomic functions. When damaged, they can cause pain, weakness, numbness, and coordination problems, often starting in the hands or feet.

There are over 100 types of neuropathy, and while causes vary, many people benefit significantly from rehabilitation therapy to manage symptoms and improve function.

Common Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

Symptoms depend on the nerves affected and can range from mild to disabling. Common signs include:

Sensory Symptoms

  • Numbness or reduced sensation
  • Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
  • Burning or sharp pains (especially at night)
  • Hypersensitivity to touch

Motor Symptoms

  • Muscle weakness
  • Cramping or twitching
  • Difficulty walking or balancing
  • Muscle atrophy over time

Autonomic Symptoms

  • Dizziness when standing
  • Digestive issues
  • Heat intolerance or sweating abnormalities
  • Bladder or bowel dysfunction

These symptoms often appear symmetrically in a “stocking-glove” pattern—starting in the feet and hands.

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by many factors, including:

  • Diabetes mellitus (most common cause)
  • Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12)
  • Infections (e.g., shingles, Lyme disease, HIV)
  • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, Guillain-Barré syndrome)
  • Toxins or heavy metals
  • Trauma or repetitive stress (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome)

Sometimes the cause is unknown—this is called idiopathic neuropathy.

Diagnosing Neuropathy

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • Neurological examination
  • Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG)
  • Blood tests for metabolic or autoimmune causes
  • MRI or imaging to rule out nerve compression
  • Skin or nerve biopsy (in rare cases)

Early diagnosis is key to slowing progression and managing symptoms.

How Therapy Helps People With Neuropathy

Although medications like gabapentin or duloxetine can relieve symptoms, rehabilitation therapy is critical for maintaining strength, safety, and independence.

Physical Therapy (PT)

  • Improves balance, gait, and muscle strength
  • Reduces fall risk through targeted coordination training
  • Enhances mobility with assistive device training
  • Provides pain-relief techniques and nerve gliding exercises

Occupational Therapy (OT)

  • Supports safe performance of daily activities
  • Introduces adaptive tools for cooking, dressing, or grooming
  • Recommends ergonomic changes to reduce nerve strain
  • Educates patients on energy conservation and hand protection

Speech-Language Pathology (SLP)

  • Helps with swallowing issues or speech clarity if cranial nerves are involved
  • Provides communication strategies when fine motor loss affects writing or typing

Pediatric Neuropathy Support

Though rare, children can experience neuropathy due to genetics, autoimmune disorders, or chemotherapy.

  • Pediatric rehab focuses on:
  • Age-appropriate mobility and coordination training
  • Improving sensory processing
  • Supporting handwriting, play, and school activities

DrSensory connects families with pediatric PTs and OTs who specialize in neurological disorders.

How DrSensory Helps You Find a Neuropathy Therapist

At DrSensory, our mission is to simplify access to therapy by connecting you with licensed, verified specialists trained in treating neuropathy and nerve disorders.

🔍 Search by therapy type (PT, OT, SLP)

📍 Filter by condition, location, and age group

📄 Browse detailed profiles with therapist credentials, clinic specialties, and contact options

💬 Choose in-person or virtual appointments

📌 [Find Therapists for Peripheral Neuropathy Near You →]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is peripheral neuropathy curable?

It depends on the cause. Some types are reversible (e.g., vitamin deficiency or medication-induced neuropathy), while others are chronic. However, therapy can improve symptoms and prevent progression in most cases.

How does physical therapy help with neuropathy?

PT strengthens weakened muscles, improves gait and balance, and reduces fall risk. Therapists may use sensory retraining, gait correction, and nerve mobilization exercises to restore function.

Can occupational therapy help with hand numbness?

Yes. OT helps improve fine motor coordination, teaches hand protection techniques, and recommends adaptive devices to support safe and independent hand use during daily tasks.

Is neuropathy painful?

It can be. Many people experience burning, tingling, or sharp pain, particularly in the feet. Therapies and medications can help reduce discomfort and increase daily functioning.

Can children get neuropathy?

Yes, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, or with hereditary conditions or autoimmune diseases. Pediatric therapy can support motor development, play, and school participation.

Will insurance cover neuropathy therapy?

In most cases, yes—when therapy is prescribed by a doctor and shown to be medically necessary. Coverage typically includes PT, OT, and SLP services under Medicare, Medicaid, and private plans.

This page provides general educational content and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed provider for diagnosis and treatment.

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