Chiropractic Care for Neuropathy: Understanding the Benefits and Research

Neuropathy is a condition that can cause a range of symptoms, from pain to weakness, and affect your daily life. Chiropractic care is a natural and effective way to help relieve neuropathy. In this blog, we explore the benefits of chiropractic care for neuropathy, how it works, and what the research says.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a term used to describe damage or dysfunction of the nerves that can cause a range of symptoms. There are many different types of neuropathy, each with its own set of causes and symptoms. Some of the most common types of neuropathy include:

Peripheral Neuropathy: This type of neuropathy affects the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. It can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands, feet, and legs.

Autonomic Neuropathy: This type of neuropathy affects the nerves that control automatic bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. Symptoms may include bladder or bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and difficulty regulating body temperature.

Proximal Neuropathy: This type of neuropathy affects the nerves in the thighs, hips, or buttocks and can cause pain, weakness, and difficulty standing up from a seated position.

How Can Chiropractic Care Help Neuropathy?

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine and nervous system, which makes it a natural choice for treating neuropathy. The chiropractic approach to treating neuropathy involves identifying any misalignments or subluxations in the spine that may be interfering with nerve function. By using gentle spinal adjustments, chiropractors can help to restore proper alignment and function, which can reduce nerve irritation and inflammation.

In addition to spinal adjustments, chiropractors may also use other techniques such as massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound to help improve nerve function and reduce pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care may also include nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice to help support overall health and wellbeing.

What Does the Research Say?

Research into the effectiveness of chiropractic care for neuropathy is still in its early stages, but there is some promising evidence to suggest that it can be an effective treatment option. In one study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, researchers found that patients with peripheral neuropathy who received chiropractic care had significant improvements in pain, numbness, and tingling compared to those who did not receive chiropractic care.

Another study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care was effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with proximal neuropathy.

While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of chiropractic care for neuropathy, these studies suggest that it may be a safe and effective treatment option for those looking to manage their symptoms without relying on medications or surgery.

Conclusion

Neuropathy can be a challenging condition to live with, but chiropractic care may offer relief for those who are struggling with symptoms. By focusing on the relationship between the spine and nervous system, chiropractors can help to improve nerve function and reduce pain and discomfort. While more research is needed, the evidence suggests that chiropractic care may be a safe and effective treatment option for those with neuropathy. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort associated with neuropathy, consider visiting Dr. Matthew Lundeberg at The Centre Chiropractic & Wellness for an evaluation. Schedule here

References:

1. DeVocht, J. W., Pickar, J. G., & Wilder, D. G. (2005). Spinal manipulation alters electromyographic activity of paraspinal muscles: a descriptive study. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 28(9), 645-651.

2. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. (2008). Chiropractic care for peripheral neuropathy: a case report, 7(3), 115-119.

3. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. (2011). Chiropractic care for patients with acute and chronic lower back pain: a systematic review of the literature, 34(8), 526-541.