Neuropathy affects over 20 million Americans, and yet many people don’t realize that the burning, tingling, or numbness they’re experiencing could be related to nerve damage. Left untreated, neuropathy can worsen over time—impacting your mobility, independence, and overall quality of life.
At Cedar Rapids Pain Associates, we specialize in helping patients understand the root cause of their pain and providing the most effective treatments available today.
🧠 What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a general term for conditions that involve damage or dysfunction of the nerves. It most commonly affects the peripheral nerves (outside the brain and spinal cord), leading to symptoms in the hands, feet, arms, and legs.
⚠️ Common Causes of Neuropathy
Neuropathy can develop for many reasons. Some of the most common include:
- 🍬 Diabetes – the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy in the U.S.
- 🤕 Injuries or trauma – including repetitive stress and accidents
- 🍷 Chronic alcohol use
- 🥦 Vitamin deficiencies – especially B vitamins
- 🦠 Infections – shingles, Lyme disease, HIV
- 💊 Chemotherapy or medications that damage nerves
- 🔄 Autoimmune disorders – lupus, rheumatoid arthritis
🔎 Symptoms of Neuropathy
The way neuropathy feels can vary depending on which nerves are affected. Common symptoms include:
- 🔥 Burning or stabbing pain
- ✨ Tingling (“pins and needles”)
- 🦶 Numbness or loss of sensation
- 💪 Muscle weakness
- 👕 Sensitivity to touch (even clothing can hurt)
- ⚖️ Balance or coordination problems
👉 If you notice these symptoms—especially if they’re worsening—it’s important to seek care early.
💊 Traditional Treatments
Historically, treatment has focused on managing symptoms rather than reversing damage. Common options include:
- 💊 Prescription medications (anti-seizure, antidepressants, pain relievers)
- 🧴 Topical treatments (creams, gels, patches)
- 🏃 Physical therapy for strength and balance
- 🥗 Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, controlling blood sugar)
These approaches can help, but many patients find them incomplete or temporary.
🚀 New & Innovative Options for Neuropathy
The good news: newer therapies show promise in reducing pain, restoring function, and supporting nerve repair. At CRPA, we offer:
- 🧬 Regenerative Medicine – PRP injections may help heal and calm nerve inflammation
- 💡 MLS Robotic Laser Therapy – stimulates cellular repair and blood flow
- 🎯 Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) – uses sound waves to encourage tissue regeneration
- 🌀 Spinal Decompression Therapy – relieves nerve pressure in the spine
- 🌿 Non-Narcotic Medication Management – safer alternatives to opioids
⏱️ Why Early Treatment Matters
Nerve damage can progress if untreated. The sooner you start treatment, the better chance you have to:
✔️ Control pain
✔️ Prevent further damage
✔️ Improve mobility & independence
✔️ Regain quality of life
📞 Take the Next Step
If you’re living with burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands or feet, you don’t have to “just live with it.”
At Cedar Rapids Pain Associates, our specialists will create a personalized treatment plan using today’s most advanced therapies.
📞 Call us today at (319) 294-0094
💻 Or visit crpainfree.com to schedule your consultation.
👉 Appointments are available within a few days. Don’t wait—relief is possible.
