Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves that send instructions from the brain and spinal cord throughout the body. The nerves become diseased or damaged, disrupting communication. These altered signals can cause numbness, tingling and burning sensations, muscle weakness and cramping, and impaired organ function. In turn, the condition can disturb bodily processes such as digestion.

There are several types of peripheral neuropathy. It is most commonly related to complications from diabetes, in which high sugar levels over a long period of time cause the nerves to break down. Carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition linked to repetitive use of the wrists or hands, is another common cause of peripheral nerve damage. Both carpal tunnel and diabetes are classified as acquired neuropathies, which means they are caused by external factors such as illness or trauma. Neuropathies may also be classified as hereditary (passed down from parents) or idiopathic (from an unknown cause).

UAB Neuromuscular Disease Service

Over the past 40 years, the UAB Neuromuscular Disease Service has grown into an internationally recognized center for treating and better understanding neuromuscular conditions such as peripheral neuropathy. We are home to Alabama’s only dedicated neuromuscular center. Our board-certified neurologists receive special training to provide complete care for a wide range of conditions, using the most advanced techniques.

Because UAB Medicine is a major center for research, patients may be able to participate in clinical trials of promising new therapies and receive medications and treatments not available at most other medical centers.

Care Providers

Wink Fisher, III, MD Brain and Tumor Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery James Markert, Jr., MD Brain and Tumor Neurosurgery, Neurosurgery, Neurosurgical Oncology

Resources

• National Institutes of Health
• Division of Memory Disorders and Behavioral Neurology

Related Specialties

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
• Myasthenia Gravis