Neuropathy Specialist
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Kenneth J Eaddy, MD
Board Certified in Interventional Pain Management & Internal Medicine located in Jacksonville, FL
If you regularly experience symptoms like tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands and feet, it’s important to get tested for neuropathy. Though there’s no cure, early intervention can prevent the nerve damage from getting worse. At his self-titled practice, double board-certified interventional pain management physician Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, provides complete care for neuropathy. To make an appointment, call the office in Jacksonville, Florida, or click the online booking feature today.
Neuropathy Q & A
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition characterized by damage to your neurons –– nerve cells that send and receive important messages throughout your body. If your neurons are damaged or destroyed, it affects the way your nerves communicate with your brain. Over time, that can affect your balance, mobility, and quality of life.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
Symptoms of neuropathy include:
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations in the hands and feet
- Muscle weakness
- Sharp, burning pain
- Numbness
- Pain that comes and goes
Neuropathy also increases your risk of infection. If the nerves in your feet don’t work as they should, you might cut yourself and not realize it.
Who is at risk of experiencing neuropathy?
Neuropathy affects people of all backgrounds, but several factors may increase your risk, including:
- Diabetes
- Trauma
- Autoimmune disorders
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Alcoholism
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Vascular disorders
You’re also more likely to experience neuropathy if you work a job that exposes you to industrial chemicals or solvents.
How is neuropathy diagnosed?
To diagnose neuropathy, Dr. Eaddy reviews your medical history and asks a variety of questions, including if you work around chemicals, if you have a family history of nerve disease, and if you take any prescription medication.
Next, he conducts a physical exam as well as a neurological exam. Dr. Eaddy checks your reflexes, coordination, and balance, assesses your muscle strength and tone, and tests your ability to feel temperature sensations like hot and cold. He also orders laboratory tests, including blood work and diagnostic imaging.
If these measures don’t provide enough insight into your symptoms, Dr. Eaddy might also order a nerve conduction study or needle electromyography. A nerve conduction study measures how well your nerves carry electrical signals, while needle electromyography assesses the health of your muscles.
How is neuropathy treated?
Treatment of neuropathy depends on various factors, including your age and the severity of the nerve damage. Whenever possible, Dr. Eaddy recommends conservative treatments, like:
- Prescription medication
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Mobility aids, like a walker or a cane
- Proper nutrition
- Regular exercise
- Limiting your alcohol intake
If your neuropathy is related to a herniated disc or the age-related narrowing of your spine, you might also benefit from surgical intervention, but only as a last resort.
To receive comprehensive treatment for neuropathy, make an appointment at the practice of Kenneth J Eaddy, MD, by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
