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Nerve Testing for Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy refers to a condition of the nerves that carry messages to and from the brain and spine from the rest of the body. When these nerves, also known as peripheral nerves, suffer from damage or disease, peripheral neuropathy is a result. Peripheral neuropathy is most common in people over the age of 55, affecting between 3 and 4 percent of people in this age group. Peripheral neuropathy is a serious condition that should be treated right away. At Comprehensive Healthcare Group, we conduct nerve testing in Oceanside to detect conditions like peripheral neuropathy and get you the treatment you need.  

Types of Peripheral Neuropathy:

Nerve Testing for Peripheral Neuropathy

There are a few different types of peripheral neuropathies, each with different possible causes. However, the two major types are Mononeuropathy and Polyneuropathy. Additionally, there are different types of peripheral neuropathies within these two groups that can be diagnosed with nerve testing in Oceanside

Disability:

You may find yourself in a situation where you are left disabled by a work-related injury or illness. Depending on the severity of your injury or disability will determine how your case is handled by your employer. There are 4 categories for disability: 

  • Temporary total disability- Worker is completely unable to work for a short period but can return to work at full capacity.
  • Temporary partial disability- an employee can work at diminished capacity without needing time off.
  • Permanent total disability- Employees can no longer work their position.
  • Permanent partial disability- Employees can return to work but never at the same role or capacity they once worked at.

Mononeuropathies:

Mononeuropathy refers to damage to a single peripheral nerve. Mononeuropathies are commonly caused by physical injuries or traumas from accidents. They can also result from extended periods of not moving certain muscles such as being in a wheelchair or on bedrest. Among the most common types of mononeuropathies are:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal tunnel is a common overuse or strain injury that results from repeated wrist motions. For example, those who are physical laborers or who use computer keyboards often are at a greater risk for developing carpal tunnel. 
  • Peroneal Nerve Palsy: Peroneal nerve palsy affects the area at the top of the calf outside of the knee. It results from compression of this nerve and can make it difficult to lift the foot of the affected leg.
  • Ulnar Nerve Palsy: Ulnar nerve palsy affects the elbow and certain fingers. It occurs when the nerve just below the skin of the elbow becomes damaged, often resulting in numbness of the 4th and 5th fingers of the same hand. 
  • Radial Nerve Palsy: Radial nerve palsy affects the nerves along the upper arm. It is commonly paired with humerus bone fractures in this area. 

Polyneuropathies:

Polyneuropathy refers to damage or malfunction of multiple nerves at the same time. This type of peripheral neuropathy is much more common than mononeuropathies. Polyneuropathies can result from complications from kidney failure, cancer, alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, and more. Among the most common types of polyneuropathies are: 

  • Diabetic Neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy affects those with diabetes who do not properly control their blood sugar levels.
  • Acquired Neuropathy: Acquired neuropathies are commonly caused by another condition or disorder. The most common cause for them is diabetes, although they can also result from trauma, infection, or toxins such as alcohol or medication.
  • Hereditary Neuropathy: Hereditary neuropathies are those that are genetically inherited from one’s parents. The most common one is known as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1, resulting in weakness of the arms and legs, onsetting at any time from mid-childhood to age 30. 

What is Nerve Testing?

Nerve Testing, more specifically, Electromyogram (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) are tests conducted to evaluate the overall health of the muscles and nerves. These tests can help to determine the cause of weakness in the muscles and determine if it is linked to neurologic disorders like peripheral neuropathy. If you believe that you may be suffering from a type of peripheral neuropathy, nerve testing in Oceanside at Comprehensive Healthcare Group can be conducted to find the cause and get you the proper treatment. 

Why Nerve Testing in Oceanside?

At Comprehensive Healthcare Group, we have state-of-the-art electrodiagnostic imaging equipment at our facility that allows us to properly determine the cause of your nerve or muscle issues. We perform extensive testing on patients who need it so that we can create a proper, effective treatment plan catered to their specific needs. Contact us today to get started with nerve testing in Oceanside!