It takes a brilliant person to combine anatomy and humor that patients can easily understand. Based on this video I'm thinking I may have the sensory neuropathy. Now I can better explain things to a doctor. Great job Dr. Reeves,
Thank you so much...this has been most helpful in providing a clear and comprehensive explanation of this condition...I asked for help for years... and received no answers...I’m now 73 and have been diagnosed with “Severe Peripheral Neuropathy” in feet, legs, hands and arms...I am currently on my 3rd medication to no avail... I spend so many nights in tears... I have undergone a major nerve biopsy in my foot...still no explanation as to why or how.... At least now I no longer feel as though I am losing my mind....and for this, again, I thank you... 🌳🌺 Sandra 🌺🌳 Australia
Thank you, Dr. That was the most thorough explanation I’ve heard yet. And I really appreciate having a thorough mechanical understanding of what is happening in my body. It helps me very much in my moment to moment decision making about how to help myself. Kudos to you.
I am laughing through my pain at this video... thanks for the info along with the comedy.... I was thoroughly impressed with your backwards drawing skills!! Well done Alanna.
I was falling asleep while watching your video at 6:30 PM due to unresolved peripheral neuropathy until I realized that you know what you're talking about! I was recently prescribed gabapentin but no other insights provided by my medical provider, which is present in many communities throughout the United States. I will review this video and all your other information on neuropathy and change my medical care to the local university medical center. Many Thanks!
Thank You Dr.Reeves! My neuropathy has been getting progressively worse and I haven’t known what is happening or where to start. My primary care says I don’t have diabetes; the neurosurgeon says I have spinal stenosis, but the 2013 cervical spine surgery did not help; a neurologist told me she could give me a test, but it would be very painful; I was given gabapentin in the past, but it only made me sick; my Osteopath treats me weekly: it doesn’t help the neuropathy. I have all the symptoms you describe for small fiber autonomic peripheral neuropathy. I did not even know that they were likely connected. I am very grateful for your video!
A simple excellent explanation - I have had Type 2 Diabetes for over 25 Years and have been diagnosed with PN ... have tingling and numbless on inside of my feet - symptoms came on after I had a full knee replacement (right leg) and a injury after a fall ( left leg) . Response to my questions as to how to treat the symptoms is " you just have to live with it - and also manage your BGL The explanation in this video has given me a much better understanding of the condition - so thank you
Wow! Thank you so much. This is an incredible video. I have CIDP, Central Sleep Apnea, and diabetes among other things and and am doing very well. This reminds me how much I’ve been helped by neurologists and treatments. I am so grateful to you, too. ⭐️
You need to let folks know how peripheral nerves regenerate and heal. Some a little, some a lot, and some completely. Glucose control helps, so does exercise and good nerve rebuilding supplements and vitamins. It's not a death sentence and it doesn't have to always get worse.
Thanks for this video. I gained an incredible amount of information about Peripheral/poly neuropathy. Understanding this condition helps me better deal with my diagnosis. Very easy to understand giving me a better recall.
There are many treatments which can reduce the symptoms. Some seizure medications, some depression meds, some various creams (prescription) are often used. If blood sugar is a part of the problem, getting that under control is important in slowing down the process. You'll want to discuss treatments with your primary doctor or neurologist.
I’m not diabetic and I’ve never consumed alcoholic beverages. That apparently knocks me out of the top four causes of neuropathy. It doesn’t matter, because I do have bilateral peripheral neuropathy! I was INI diagnosed by really good neurologist at the University of Florida, Shands Medical Center. My primary neurologist realized I wanted better answers than he could provide, so I was referred to the Mayo Clinic. My wife and I drove from Florida to Mayo’s main campus in Rochester Minnesota. I was very impressed with everything about the Mayo Clinic’s doctors and medical staff. They were great. During the first morning of meetings, my primary Mayo neurologist said we had a 40% chance of getting a solid diagnosis. I was thrilled! My mind immediately jumped back to childhood and baseball. I reasoned, if a baseball player batted 400, they were a shoe in for the Baseball Hall of Fame! Wow, let the testing begin! Over the next few days, I had a few “repeat” tests, but somehow the test at Mayo went a few steps beyond whatever I had previously received. Then there were other tests which I couldn’t have imagined! Nothing was overwhelming nor inappropriate. I was thrilled to receive the results these tests would uncover. I know my Cooperstown moment was coming on that Friday afternoon! Okay, it didn’t turn out exactly how I scripted it to go. I didn’t get a Cooperstown moment. When my Mayo neurologist said they had no idea why or what type of neuropathy I had, I was bummed. I told the doctor about my anticipation of a Hall of Fame moment. He apologized. He said the good news for me was what he could conclusively say what I didn’t have! I didn’t understand at first, so he elaborated. The most serious short and long term diseases all are the ones that are named because do the most damage. So, while not getting a specific name for my condition, this was actually a good thing! While I do need to be careful due to the progressive nature of bilateral neuropathy, I could and should live a long, and relatively healthy life! As I watched this video today, the conclusion was a reminder of what I’ve been told by the best doctors available. My particular version of neuropathy is real, but it’s manageable, so long as I continue to be proactive. I gotta keep moving! Thanks for the great graphics’s and clear information about a difficult condition!
Thank you Dr. Reeves, Very good video, I usually try to watch your videos and when I hit upon one that interest me I watch it and take notes. I have a question if you can answer it. My left foot fourth to gives me extreme pain intermittently. I did see a podiatrist which examined me that I’m having pain due to pressure on a nerve and recommended a prosthetic which did not work for me. My question is can I have that nerve cut so that it doesn’t effect the my other toes and legs. Thanks.
What do I have if I was tested for large and small fibres by a nerve conduction test and comes back normal? But I have pain, it feels like my skin is burning as soon as I stop moving...and start to cool down? Clothes rub and hurt. I do t know if it’s allodynia or something else. What do u think? My feet buzz and zap..no diabetes. I do have 6 tattoos. I was told I have tattoo related uveitis and the tattoos were raised..biopsy came back “sarcoidosis type” is it really the tattoos. How do I fix my pain? What if the doctors don’t listen to me about the small fibre testing you mentioned?
Excellent explanation. I'm certain my neuropathy was caused by a drug for hypertension - which I stopped taking. I don't want to take any drugs to relieve the pain such as Gabapentin - I'm thinking of trying and nmes device. I can't seem to find any good information on this treatment - I wish you would do one.
I have 'idiopathic' small fibre sensory PN in feet and up to above the knees but none in the fingers/hands so that doesn't fit the picture. Any ideas for a cause for this?
You're right, that doesn't really fit well. I have seen a few folks who had what sounded like typical small fibre PN but who in fact had lumbar stenosis squeezing the nerve roots.
MRI scans typically will show abnormal changes in the spinal area if the problem is a *structural* one. A mistake I often see, even by experienced doctors, is when we clinically determine that a person has a problem in an area (say, brain, spinal cord, or nerve roots) but the MRI scan is normal; they often conclude that the problem must be somewhere else. Well, sometimes it is somewhere else, but sometimes it is exactly where you thought it was, but it simply is not a structural problem. MRI, being mostly a structural test (I'm excluding fMRI, which is a different animal entirely) often leads people to only think about structural processes like discs, canal narrowing, tumours, etc.--but ignoring nonstructural ones (e.g., inflammatory, chemical, immune-mediated). I hope you are seeing a sharp neurologist! Best of luck to you, and I wish you better health.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology That's very helpful, thank you. Unfortunately many neurologists (I'm quoting my own) use language like "unfortunately in this case there is no cause". Well obviously there is but...
I am from the UK and have tried for the last 2 years to sort out what I do believe is small fibre peripheral neuropathy. I tick all the boxes.. I was checked for large fibre and because it was negative it has gone no further... I was offered gabapentin which I declined eventhogh the pain in my toes is awful. It is in my hands and up to my elbows. I rub my skin on my arms and feel sharp needle like pricks. I don't know what to do from here. You say it will get worse if it is not treated and yet if there is no test for small fibres what else can I do?? Already my feet feel coldly numb when I walk or drive. I am 55 so nowhere close to retirement..got to keep working. I am trying to eat well and hope this helps somewhat.. I am a cleaner and bleech is a chemical I have used neat and diluted for the past 10 years. Hard to give it up when t helps me clean without the need to scrub.. which I cannot do anymore because I have little strength in my arms and hands...
There ARE tests for small fibre neuropathies. First, there are tests which demonstrate that there is, in fact, a small fibre neuropathy present. This includes QSART testing, epidermal nerve fibre density testing, and a few others. After that one undergoes various tests to look for an underlying cause of the neuropathy. There are many and varied possible causes, but certainly we cannot always find the exact cause in each person.
I fell and injured my hip the Dr. In the ER Decided to give me a partial hip replacement. And I came home with neuropathy in life foot ankle that was 2 years ago I still have tingling down the side of my leg from just below the knee through my ankle through the top of my foot and my large right toe does not move at all I've managed to get the rest of the toes up off of the floor a little and I can lift my foot slightly but in the beginning I couldn't do any of that and that was just determination so that I didn't have to walk with a ankle support. Is there anything I can do to get the rest of my movement back and get the tingling to go away Thank you
The meds listed above, can they be used together? LIke Gabapentin and if my symptoms dont ease up, then take duloxetine (cymbalta)? I started with the Gap, but moved to the Cymbalta 60mg 2x a day and at Night, I cant even have the sheets on my feet it burns/hurts so bad! I was just wondering if there was a good combo?
Had a strange experience on the weekend ....donated a pint of blood and that night and the next day no burning feet! Two things I did different was drink heaps of water and ate salty foods as recommended by the clinic....Tuesday drinking lots a water and burning is not too bad...not diabetic or pre diabetic..
Number four reason might be Lyme disease, the nerve myelin is being eaten by the bacteria. This is a huge epidemic nobody is talking about. These bacteria love the brain and nervous system tissues. It is often the first sign of Lyme. It is often missed by the doctors and can progress into something that looks like MS, Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s and generally is often lumped into the bin of fibromyalgia, which is not a diagnosis as much as it is a group of symptoms. And it is often progressive and misdiagnosed.
It is clear that infection with borrelia burgdorferi can cause a multifocal inflammatory neuropathy (aka, mononeuropathy multiplex). Whether it causes a symmetric, distal peripheral neuropathy is a matter of debate (e.g., article by Wormser 2017). You're right, though, that Lyme can have so many different neurologic presentations that it is easy to miss. Sometimes it looks like common "Bell's Palsy," sometimes it's "a pinched nerve in the neck." I happen to live and work in an area which is endemic with Lyme, so it pays to be on the lookout!
I have neuropathy but don't know what kind. Not a diabetic. No chemicals. My legs are numb, feet burn, arms partially numb partial burning in my hands. My center body is numb. I don't know when I'm hungry or full. I have nystagmus in my eyes. I can't taste or smell and yes I have been tested for covid but tested negative. Any advice for me would be greatly appreciated. thanks!
This is a good question. I'm mulling how to do a video on neuropathy treatments. It's such a large field that I'm a bit hesitant. Also, to be honest, lots of salesmen and quacks want to get into the business of "treating" neuropathy based upon unproven or marginally proven ideas, and it gets discouraging. I'll think it over.
what a fantastic explanation!! I’ve had burning feet for about eight months and NOBODY not even my doctors could explain it to me! thanks! still not sure how to get relief but at least I know the “what” of it all
I had burning feet that came on suddenly 2 yrs ago. Standing in very chilly ocean water for 10+ minutes relieved the burning and it hasn't returned. One dr. suggested I stand on cold tile for burning feet & hot water for cold feet.
Thanks Doc, this was so well explained in layman's lingo. Been having this numbness, tingling and stiffness around my toes and sole of my right foot and sometimes my hands. We are still in the process of figuring out what it is. I was once diagnosed with Multilevel degenerative facet joint disease. Can it somehow lead to PN?
Glad it was helpful. While facet joint problems can affect adjacent nerves, the distribution of problems and types of symptoms should be a bit different from a PN.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology thank you fpr this video! my blood tests results show that i have very low folic acid, so this can be the cause. i'm on folic acid supliments, tramadol, pregabalina and acupuncture. do you know anyone that has recovered when the cause is low folic acid?
Very intelligent Dr really need to teach all Drs for 99% of these Drs gave me strong prescriptions meds that cause me side effects.Dr do you have an office in NYC City
sorry - I forgot to mention - I'm having muscle spasms, mostly in my legs (they spread up my torso). I also have severe muscle wastage in the tops of my arms and legs. Could these conditions be related?
I was diagnosed with idiopathic neuropathy. My podiatrist said it’s called idiopathic because doctors are idiots and don’t know why some people get it. Lol when I was younger, 20’s, my vision would go black for a few seconds when I would stand up. Blood pressure I guess from what he said maybe I had neuropathy then. Also found out that the water from the well we drank from had lots of arsenic in it. Way over the standards of what was safe. So go figure. Never had much pain with mine until I broke a bone in my left foot. Now much pain and swelling with that foot when I stand or walk much. Don’t drive much cause several years ago thought my foot was on the brake and it wasn’t it was still on the accelerator, scary. This neuropathy stinks. Thank you for your information and clear explanation.
Thank you, I really enjoyed learning about neuropathy from someone who is qualified and willing to explain it to me in plain language. I am dishearted the neurologist I took my test from refused to give me any information, he is a specialist so why can’t he give me specialized information instead of relying on my GP to do all the explaining when she is nit a expert as the neurologist is. As I digress, What is the name of the next videos we should watch to learn about the different types of treatments for neuropathy?
So doc i have almost all symptoms of small fiber issues have gone to my neurological doctors they have nothing to say gave me amytriptilne helped a little can’t take all these meds though it’s to much what can I do to make sure I’m not going to be putting myself in harms way in the future I can barely use my left arm and my neck is starting to get extremely painful shooting up and down left to right in the front and back of my skull no so much on the top though in all honesty could really use some advice if possible
Glad you liked the video, Kari, and thanks for your feedback. As you saw, I go low-tech on my videos. This is for ease of production and to keep the costs down (to ZERO, to be exact!)
I keep getting checked for diabetes but the test comes back normal , family history of it been tested multiple times. The only other thing I can think of is my trade being a painter? Great video I think I have small nerve problems 51 not looking forward to amputations later or needle tests . Why do the test if there’s in no help?
I have peripheral neuropathy from about my calf to my feet and it could be in my hands but they’ve been numb and tingly for 15 years now and I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2011. I’ve been dealing with the peripheral neuropathy from the calf down to my feet for four months now and it seems to be getting better because in the beginning I couldn’t walk I couldn’t with my legs now I can lift my legs but they are still very weak. What can I do besides exercising and strength training to get it to go away? I even have some numbness and tingling in my right upper thigh and horrible pain in my low back/tailbone area.
Thanks for such a clear explanation of the problem. I really didn't believe you were a doctor until I saw the White Coat! Actually the very clear explanation was the best proof that you know what you are talking about and of course there was no hard sales pitch which nowadays reduces credibility.
That would be unusual, unless the PN affected blood pressure regulation circuits and in turn caused low blood pressure. But then, the dizziness would tend to occur with standing, not constantly.
@ 8:50 you said you would question a diagnoses of PN if someone was numb up to their knees but their hands were fine. Could you elaborate on that because this is what I'm experiencing as the foot numbness + cold came on suddenly one night about a month ago. A few years ago I took a fall + injured my knee + since then occasionally must use a cane. Thanks Doc
In my experience, when my patients have ONLY leg symptoms up to the mid-calf or higher--without any hand/finger symptoms at all--they usually turn out to have low back problems (usually lumbar spinal stenosis). Another thing--when I hear about SUDDEN onset of symptoms restricted only to the leg(s), I get very concerned that the person has a structural problem in the low back, such as a disc herniation causing spinal stenosis. Hope that helps.
Thank you! Which test would be appropriate to determine spinal stenosis? Xray? NCS, MRI? EMG? So far I've had 6 adjustments at the chiropractor but it hasn't yet helped alleviate the numbness in my foot, thanks I appreciate your reply
seeamerica1 I understand the knee injury . That's how you will not know until you experience the numbness in feet and works the leg . My knee injury happened in 2003 and about 3 yrs later my right leg felt like it was running constantly . Now....... numbness started with that same leg foot 2014 and is getting worse . B1 & B12 might stand a chance that I will be taking along with going Vegan(😲) I'm trying to gain weight for I have lost and just had a Carotid Endarterectomy a month ago on the same Right side . We have to fix from the inside out and sweets a no no but gee ! Thank God for RUclips University Because it's Always Good to Be your Own Advocate !!! 💕 I love videos like this that are good for the Brain.......... Respectfully 😏
Thanks for sharing your experience. My knee is always warm to the touch + I never know if when walking the knee will hold me so yeah I usually keep a cane with me. I get shooting pains in my foot + shins now since now I walk with a limp. I've become very frustrated cause I'm still trying to get a xray of my back + knee but my insurance won't pay for it + I don't have extra funds. When going to a regular clinic in town all they will do are blood tests + try to push blood pressure meds on me; but I know the only reason my pressure is up is because I've been taking over the counter pain killers + sleeping pills to get through the night. No need to compound a problem any further than necessary.
My neuropathy started in my feet during chemotherapy. It crept up my legs for years after treatment ended. About 3 years ago, it started in my hands. 🧐
I don't think stress would cause a PN. But, if you have a PN, stress can make the symptoms worse. Just like stress makes the symptoms of just about EVERYTHING worse!
Thank you. You're given me insight into my right side issues. I carried mail for 27 years. I think until we stop treating human labor like factory farm animals there will be millions of problems to keep the medical machine in business. I know doctors want to help but to me, so much trouble could be avoided with a little humanity in the workplace.
Where is having severe pain in my left foot near my right my heel but on the bright side, it's very painful and it is killing me to go to the doctors ASAP cuz I don't know way too long, but it feels like something is in there. But there's a little bump right there. The area is Anyway, I have to go To see the doctors soon.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology People do" make mistakes "Mister Perfect" but what I WROTE STILL STANDS... As a minister/psychologist, I can understand your spirit and mind: CONTROL.... BROTHER JAMES 🙏🦉
I've been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease neurologist trying to get me surgery .no relief in sight. I've got drop foot gait in both legs. I have a little movement in my feet. When I try to move my feet I get feeling like I'm being poked with pin and needle from my feet to my knees.
Hi Ron .... degenerative disc disease .... , o.k. i have pain from left ankle right outer side. And dull on the left side of the leg along the aft side of the bone to left side under the knee where the bone ends and extends forward out . I got it after surgery L5 stenosis , so the thought is it is a nerve somewhere stuck at L5 . I also feel pain in that area when i move my upper body around... and while walking ... I started doing heat chock proteins sessions by means of a FAR infra red mattress , just for 3/4 hr lying on the mat ...stimulates circulation and blood flow to the spine ..... drink water a lot keep a good posture while sitting and walk a lot ..and try to get someone look if your hips is not pulling you back to aft too much . I feel progress after feb this year .... until now ..slowly ..but steadily.
Hi doc very informative I have permanent neuropathy from alcohol abuse had it for over been sober for seven years I recently was prescribed cipro for an infection seems to have sent my neuropathy anything you could suggest to help would be appreciated .
I have small fiber neuropathy caused by Sjogrens Syndrome. It took over 3 years to find that this is the cause. Honestly my life is a living hell. I now have no idea what it is like to live a pain free life. I also have Crohn's disease. No medication that I have been given has ever worked for me. The neuropathy is right up to my waist and into my hands. The burning and numbness in my feet is unreal. How do you live like like this?
Brilliant description of my own personal Neuropathy...small fibre sensory neuropathy .. autonomic (SFSN), thank goodness only my small sensory cutaneous nerves are affected...and I am willing to ENDURE this toe tingling, foot numbness..... for my NIGHTLY enjoyment of 1 beer + 9 shots of Irish Whiskey (Jameson, of course, unless there is a BIG SALE on Tillamook)..it drives my sweet family doc nuts...he always thinks I have diabetes....lol
Would a car accident cause PN? I have had injury to my spine at the cervical and lumbar regions which cause numbness and tingling in my hands and feet. Is this the same as PN?
Yes, I’ve had this problem since my accident. A year ago, both in my hands, fingers, neck and back. I went to see a podiatrist who said there’s nothing wrong with my feet, it’s coming from a compressed nerve in my back. I went to a chiropractor and it’s already started to ease off a little after the 1st treatment. I will be going again, but he said we need to decompress my spine so it doesn’t squeeze the nerve & gave me a couple of exercise to do. And follow up with him.
Thought I was the only one with burning feet and hands, skin feels like pricks at times, can't stand fabric against my legs/feet. Recently had a heart attack, take 7 pills a day, 3 of them twice a day. Take gabapentin three times a day, 100 mg, it worked at first but symptoms have returned. Also been told I have stage 4 kidney disease, no meds for that yet.
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![Can you die from peripheral neuropathy? [Early vs Late Symptoms]](/img/1.gif)
It takes a brilliant person to combine anatomy and humor that patients can easily understand. Based on this video I'm thinking I may have the sensory neuropathy. Now I can better explain things to a doctor. Great job Dr. Reeves,
Please don’t ever re-do this video. I love it the way it is. Thanks for making these!
Thank you so much...this has been most helpful in providing a clear and comprehensive explanation of this condition...I asked for help for years... and received no answers...I’m now 73 and have been diagnosed with “Severe Peripheral Neuropathy” in feet, legs, hands and arms...I am currently on my 3rd medication to no avail...
I spend so many nights in tears...
I have undergone a major nerve biopsy in my foot...still no explanation as to why or how....
At least now I no longer feel as though I am losing my mind....and for this, again, I thank you...
🌳🌺 Sandra 🌺🌳
Australia
Get
Sea moss
Bladderwrack
Burdock root
Yellow dock
Lions mane
B complex
R Lipoic acid
B12
B1 Benfotamine and thiamine
That was a nice family video. No expensive editing. But your professionalism was above excellent.
Great, great job. Thanks for the clear information.
Glad you enjoyed it, Ted!
Thank you, Dr. That was the most thorough explanation I’ve heard yet. And I really appreciate having a thorough mechanical understanding of what is happening in my body. It helps me very much in my moment to moment decision making about how to help myself. Kudos to you.
Glad it was helpful!
The best info I’ve seen to date. Thanks, Doc!
I am laughing through my pain at this video... thanks for the info along with the comedy.... I was thoroughly impressed with your backwards drawing skills!! Well done Alanna.
Finally - someone who can explain this to a lay person. Thank you so very, very much
Yes! The visual aid... perfect help!
Excellent video. I have diabetic neuropathy and just wanted to know more about it. This really helps understand it.
Thank you for the thorough and simple explanation.
I was falling asleep while watching your video at 6:30 PM due to unresolved peripheral neuropathy until I realized that you know what you're talking about! I was recently prescribed gabapentin but no other insights provided by my medical provider, which is present in many communities throughout the United States. I will review this video and all your other information on neuropathy and change my medical care to the local university medical center. Many Thanks!
Thank You Dr.Reeves! My neuropathy has been getting progressively worse and I haven’t known what is happening or where to start. My primary care says I don’t have diabetes; the neurosurgeon says I have spinal stenosis, but the 2013 cervical spine surgery did not help; a neurologist told me she could give me a test, but it would be very painful; I was given gabapentin in the past, but it only made me sick; my Osteopath treats me weekly: it doesn’t help the neuropathy. I have all the symptoms you describe for small fiber autonomic peripheral neuropathy. I did not even know that they were likely connected. I am very grateful for your video!
Diane, I'm glad you found it useful! I actually started the channel thinking only my patients and their families might watch the videos. Silly me.
Best description I have come across so far. Thank you.
A simple excellent explanation - I have had Type 2 Diabetes for over 25 Years and have been diagnosed with PN ... have tingling and numbless on inside of my feet - symptoms came on after I had a full knee replacement (right leg) and a injury after a fall ( left leg) . Response to my questions as to how to treat the symptoms is " you just have to live with it - and also manage your BGL The explanation in this video has given me a much better understanding of the condition - so thank you
Hi Andrew. Wanted to let you know that ,you husband went off of all grains and it helped even though all pain isn't gone. Thanks for the video
Wow! Thank you so much. This is an incredible video. I have CIDP, Central Sleep Apnea, and diabetes among other things and and am doing very well. This reminds me how much I’ve been helped by neurologists and treatments. I am so grateful to you, too. ⭐️
You need to let folks know how peripheral nerves regenerate and heal. Some a little, some a lot, and some completely. Glucose control helps, so does exercise and good nerve rebuilding supplements and vitamins. It's not a death sentence and it doesn't have to always get worse.
What if my Peripheral Neuropathy is caused by sciatica, below, and my Peripheral Neurophaty is caused by my neck in the upper extremities?
Ha ha, I think this is my problem as well.
Thanks for this video. I gained an incredible amount of information about Peripheral/poly neuropathy. Understanding this condition helps me better deal with my diagnosis. Very easy to understand giving me a better recall.
Glad it was helpful, Sharon.
Thank you for this video, it is very informative. I understand a lot more now.
There are many treatments which can reduce the symptoms. Some seizure medications, some depression meds, some various creams (prescription) are often used. If blood sugar is a part of the problem, getting that under control is important in slowing down the process. You'll want to discuss treatments with your primary doctor or neurologist.
marija kostic españool
I love the way it has been presented
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is curable?
Your simply explation is aaaaawsome.congratulation. God bless
Good explanation. ..still looking for relief without drugs! Thanks Dr
Wow. What a spetacular explanation.Thank you. Greetings from Brazil
I’m not diabetic and I’ve never consumed alcoholic beverages. That apparently knocks me out of the top four causes of neuropathy. It doesn’t matter, because I do have bilateral peripheral neuropathy! I was INI diagnosed by really good neurologist at the University of Florida, Shands Medical Center.
My primary neurologist realized I wanted better answers than he could provide, so I was referred to the Mayo Clinic. My wife and I drove from Florida to Mayo’s main campus in Rochester Minnesota.
I was very impressed with everything about the Mayo Clinic’s doctors and medical staff. They were great. During the first morning of meetings, my primary Mayo neurologist said we had a 40% chance of getting a solid diagnosis. I was thrilled!
My mind immediately jumped back to childhood and baseball. I reasoned, if a baseball player batted 400, they were a shoe in for the Baseball Hall of Fame! Wow, let the testing begin!
Over the next few days, I had a few “repeat” tests, but somehow the test at Mayo went a few steps beyond whatever I had previously received. Then there were other tests which I couldn’t have imagined! Nothing was overwhelming nor inappropriate. I was thrilled to receive the results these tests would uncover. I know my Cooperstown moment was coming on that Friday afternoon!
Okay, it didn’t turn out exactly how I scripted it to go. I didn’t get a Cooperstown moment. When my Mayo neurologist said they had no idea why or what type of neuropathy I had, I was bummed. I told the doctor about my anticipation of a Hall of Fame moment. He apologized.
He said the good news for me was what he could conclusively say what I didn’t have! I didn’t understand at first, so he elaborated. The most serious short and long term diseases all are the ones that are named because do the most damage.
So, while not getting a specific name for my condition, this was actually a good thing! While I do need to be careful due to the progressive nature of bilateral neuropathy, I could and should live a long, and relatively healthy life!
As I watched this video today, the conclusion was a reminder of what I’ve been told by the best doctors available. My particular version of neuropathy is real, but it’s manageable, so long as I continue to be proactive. I gotta keep moving!
Thanks for the great graphics’s and clear information about a difficult condition!
That’s a bummer no cause ? . Look at medication’s long term your on
Did not mention skin biopsy for diagnosing small fiber neuropathy?
Yes, I think I left that out!
Very well explained. Thank you for sharing
Thank you doctor. .this is helped me alot...can you please suggest how to deal with also?? God bless you
Thank you Dr. Reeves,
Very good video, I usually try to watch your videos and when I hit upon one that interest me I watch it and take notes.
I have a question if you can answer it. My left foot fourth to gives me extreme pain intermittently. I did see a podiatrist which examined me that I’m having pain due to pressure on a nerve and recommended a prosthetic which did not work for me.
My question is can I have that nerve cut so that it doesn’t effect the my other toes and legs.
Thanks.
What do I have if I was tested for large and small fibres by a nerve conduction test and comes back normal? But I have pain, it feels like my skin is burning as soon as I stop moving...and start to cool down? Clothes rub and hurt. I do t know if it’s allodynia or something else. What do u think? My feet buzz and zap..no diabetes. I do have 6 tattoos. I was told I have tattoo related uveitis and the tattoos were raised..biopsy came back “sarcoidosis type” is it really the tattoos. How do I fix my pain? What if the doctors don’t listen to me about the small fibre testing you mentioned?
What about the FDA warning of macrobid and other antibiotics in that classification causing permanent neuropathy.
Oh yes...LOTS of drugs can cause permanent neuropathy!
Don't die in ICU. Somebody has to do it.
Doctor or a nurse?
Blood pressure meds ?
Thanks Doc. very well explained . Thanks for the vidio!!
Great explanation. Everyone who has this issue should watch this video. Beautiful job. Amazing video. Thank you.
I need treatment, i am Skriming every night from a pain
Thank you Dr. Reeves, I’m 70yrs. old and have PN. My toes up to knees n starting in my hands. Is it necessary to have an EMG
Radiation from breast cancer was mine with a combination of Stenosis of the spine
Excellent explanation. I'm certain my neuropathy was caused by a drug for hypertension - which I stopped taking. I don't want to take any drugs to relieve the pain such as Gabapentin - I'm thinking of trying and nmes device. I can't seem to find any good information on this treatment - I wish you would do one.
Did it help stopping the drug
@@KoalaBeer. Unfortunately, it did not - it just keeps getting worse but probably would be even worse than it is now if I hadn't stopped taking it.
That was very funny and informative at the same time. Thank you sooo very much.
I have 'idiopathic' small fibre sensory PN in feet and up to above the knees but none in the fingers/hands so that doesn't fit the picture. Any ideas for a cause for this?
You're right, that doesn't really fit well. I have seen a few folks who had what sounded like typical small fibre PN but who in fact had lumbar stenosis squeezing the nerve roots.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology Thank you. Nothing visible on full brain and spine MRI though. Can such compression not be invisible on MRI?
MRI scans typically will show abnormal changes in the spinal area if the problem is a *structural* one. A mistake I often see, even by experienced doctors, is when we clinically determine that a person has a problem in an area (say, brain, spinal cord, or nerve roots) but the MRI scan is normal; they often conclude that the problem must be somewhere else. Well, sometimes it is somewhere else, but sometimes it is exactly where you thought it was, but it simply is not a structural problem. MRI, being mostly a structural test (I'm excluding fMRI, which is a different animal entirely) often leads people to only think about structural processes like discs, canal narrowing, tumours, etc.--but ignoring nonstructural ones (e.g., inflammatory, chemical, immune-mediated). I hope you are seeing a sharp neurologist! Best of luck to you, and I wish you better health.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology That's very helpful, thank you. Unfortunately many neurologists (I'm quoting my own) use language like "unfortunately in this case there is no cause". Well obviously there is but...
I had an untreated low thyroid..TSH 22 for few years. Could this cause neuropathy?
Very helpful. I have this due to chemo treatments for cancer.
What is the answer.
Me tooTaxol was the toxin
I am from the UK and have tried for the last 2 years to sort out what I do believe is small fibre peripheral neuropathy. I tick all the boxes.. I was checked for large fibre and because it was negative it has gone no further... I was offered gabapentin which I declined eventhogh the pain in my toes is awful. It is in my hands and up to my elbows. I rub my skin on my arms and feel sharp needle like pricks. I don't know what to do from here. You say it will get worse if it is not treated and yet if there is no test for small fibres what else can I do?? Already my feet feel coldly numb when I walk or drive. I am 55 so nowhere close to retirement..got to keep working. I am trying to eat well and hope this helps somewhat.. I am a cleaner and bleech is a chemical I have used neat and diluted for the past 10 years. Hard to give it up when t helps me clean without the need to scrub.. which I cannot do anymore because I have little strength in my arms and hands...
There ARE tests for small fibre neuropathies. First, there are tests which demonstrate that there is, in fact, a small fibre neuropathy present. This includes QSART testing, epidermal nerve fibre density testing, and a few others. After that one undergoes various tests to look for an underlying cause of the neuropathy. There are many and varied possible causes, but certainly we cannot always find the exact cause in each person.
can you explain what small fiber neuro, & fm have both. can't find in english.
I fell and injured my hip the Dr. In the ER Decided to give me a partial hip replacement. And I came home with neuropathy in life foot ankle that was 2 years ago I still have tingling down the side of my leg from just below the knee through my ankle through the top of my foot and my large right toe does not move at all I've managed to get the rest of the toes up off of the floor a little and I can lift my foot slightly but in the beginning I couldn't do any of that and that was just determination so that I didn't have to walk with a ankle support. Is there anything I can do to get the rest of my movement back and get the tingling to go away Thank you
The meds listed above, can they be used together? LIke Gabapentin and if my symptoms dont ease up, then take duloxetine (cymbalta)? I started with the Gap, but moved to the Cymbalta 60mg 2x a day and at Night, I cant even have the sheets on my feet it burns/hurts so bad! I was just wondering if there was a good combo?
Can damage to the tail bone cause neuropathy in the feet
Had a strange experience on the weekend ....donated a pint of blood and that night and the next day no burning feet! Two things I did different was drink heaps of water and ate salty foods as recommended by the clinic....Tuesday drinking lots a water and burning is not too bad...not diabetic or pre diabetic..
If you get spasms from alcohol abuse, is that autonomous peripheral neuropathy. Yes, I do get very numb toes so I think I think I certainly have it.
Number four reason might be Lyme disease, the nerve myelin is being eaten by the bacteria. This is a huge epidemic nobody is talking about. These bacteria love the brain and nervous system tissues. It is often the first sign of Lyme. It is often missed by the doctors and can progress into something that looks like MS, Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s and generally is often lumped into the bin of fibromyalgia, which is not a diagnosis as much as it is a group of symptoms. And it is often progressive and misdiagnosed.
It is clear that infection with borrelia burgdorferi can cause a multifocal inflammatory neuropathy (aka, mononeuropathy multiplex). Whether it causes a symmetric, distal peripheral neuropathy is a matter of debate (e.g., article by Wormser 2017). You're right, though, that Lyme can have so many different neurologic presentations that it is easy to miss. Sometimes it looks like common "Bell's Palsy," sometimes it's "a pinched nerve in the neck." I happen to live and work in an area which is endemic with Lyme, so it pays to be on the lookout!
Kathleen Gustafson
What is Lyme ? ...i am trying to translate to Norwegian but nothing comes up
@@solskivenrt7516 it is a bacteria that can be transmitted via a tic bite. Google "Lyme disease"
I have neuropathy but don't know what kind. Not a diabetic. No chemicals. My legs are numb, feet burn, arms partially numb partial burning in my hands. My center body is numb. I don't know when I'm hungry or full. I have nystagmus in my eyes. I can't taste or smell and yes I have been tested for covid but tested negative. Any advice for me would be greatly appreciated. thanks!
excellent ,thank you.For some years i was exposed to Methyl Isocyanate burning fumes.
Thank you for a lucid and informative presentation. Have you also addressed treatments yet?
Thanks for the feedback. I need to get around to doing a treatment video, don't I?!
What can you do for small fiber neuropathy?
This is a good question. I'm mulling how to do a video on neuropathy treatments. It's such a large field that I'm a bit hesitant. Also, to be honest, lots of salesmen and quacks want to get into the business of "treating" neuropathy based upon unproven or marginally proven ideas, and it gets discouraging. I'll think it over.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology There is no "cure "for SFN. IVIG is the only treatment, and works marginally for auto-iimune - mediated SFN.
what a fantastic explanation!! I’ve had burning feet for about eight months and NOBODY not even my doctors could explain it to me! thanks! still not sure how to get relief but at least I know the “what” of it all
I've had burning, pins and needles in both feet for 5 years, vibrations in one leg for one year, and am now seeking a third opinion abroad.
@@goodwill8750 are you overweight or diabetic?
Get this vitamins thiamax. It a 100mg and magnesium potassium aspartame. Take it it helps with numbness helps me
I had burning feet that came on suddenly 2 yrs ago. Standing in very chilly ocean water for 10+ minutes relieved the burning and it hasn't returned. One dr. suggested I stand on cold tile for burning feet & hot water for cold feet.
Thanks Doc, this was so well explained in layman's lingo. Been having this numbness, tingling and stiffness around my toes and sole of my right foot and sometimes my hands. We are still in the process of figuring out what it is. I was once diagnosed with Multilevel degenerative facet joint disease. Can it somehow lead to PN?
Glad it was helpful. While facet joint problems can affect adjacent nerves, the distribution of problems and types of symptoms should be a bit different from a PN.
can it be healed again..
It all depends upon why the neuropathy has occurred. Many times it cannot be cured, but may be slowed down.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology thank you fpr this video!
my blood tests results show that i have very low folic acid, so this can be the cause. i'm on folic acid supliments, tramadol, pregabalina and acupuncture. do you know anyone that has recovered when the cause is low folic acid?
Thanks for the details helps me sharing with my doctor and understanding my condtion
Very intelligent Dr really need to teach all Drs for 99% of these Drs gave me strong prescriptions meds that cause me side effects.Dr do you have an office in NYC City
No. I'm in Minnesota. it's quite a ways!
sorry - I forgot to mention - I'm having muscle spasms, mostly in my legs (they spread up my torso). I also have severe muscle wastage in the tops of my arms and legs. Could these conditions be related?
I was diagnosed with idiopathic neuropathy. My podiatrist said it’s called idiopathic because doctors are idiots and don’t know why some people get it. Lol when I was younger, 20’s, my vision would go black for a few seconds when I would stand up. Blood pressure I guess from what he said maybe I had neuropathy then. Also found out that the water from the well we drank from had lots of arsenic in it. Way over the standards of what was safe. So go figure. Never had much pain with mine until I broke a bone in my left foot. Now much pain and swelling with that foot when I stand or walk much. Don’t drive much cause several years ago thought my foot was on the brake and it wasn’t it was still on the accelerator, scary. This neuropathy stinks. Thank you for your information and clear explanation.
Thank you, I really enjoyed learning about neuropathy from someone who is qualified and willing to explain it to me in plain language. I am dishearted the neurologist I took my test from refused to give me any information, he is a specialist so why can’t he give me specialized information instead of relying on my GP to do all the explaining when she is nit a expert as the neurologist is.
As I digress, What is the name of the next videos we should watch to learn about the different types of treatments for neuropathy?
Thank you. This video helped me understand and know what to tell my neurologist.
Lori G your neurologist should be telling you!😂
So doc i have almost all symptoms of small fiber issues have gone to my neurological doctors they have nothing to say gave me amytriptilne helped a little can’t take all these meds though it’s to much what can I do to make sure I’m not going to be putting myself in harms way in the future I can barely use my left arm and my neck is starting to get extremely painful shooting up and down left to right in the front and back of my skull no so much on the top though in all honesty could really use some advice if possible
Love your videos! Would love to see a video specifically on Small Fiber Neuropathy
I agree. It's a good topic, and one that I see in clinic frequently--and also frequently missed.
Soooo impressed with your art skills 💓 great video btw 👌
Glad you liked the video, Kari, and thanks for your feedback. As you saw, I go low-tech on my videos. This is for ease of production and to keep the costs down (to ZERO, to be exact!)
I keep getting checked for diabetes but the test comes back normal , family history of it been tested multiple times. The only other thing I can think of is my trade being a painter? Great video I think I have small nerve problems 51 not looking forward to amputations later or needle tests . Why do the test if there’s in no help?
I have peripheral neuropathy from about my calf to my feet and it could be in my hands but they’ve been numb and tingly for 15 years now and I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2011. I’ve been dealing with the peripheral neuropathy from the calf down to my feet for four months now and it seems to be getting better because in the beginning I couldn’t walk I couldn’t with my legs now I can lift my legs but they are still very weak. What can I do besides exercising and strength training to get it to go away? I even have some numbness and tingling in my right upper thigh and horrible pain in my low back/tailbone area.
Does klonapin cause this cuz this is beyond painful !!!! Never abused 4 yrs been a yr not getting any better cant function ! Does anything help this ?
No. Klonopin is a Benzodiazepine, not a Fluoroquinolone.
@@marcusaurelius2242 oyy !!
@@_blew_a_fuse_7372 Oyy what?
@@marcusaurelius2242 irony
Mine is caused by a compressed nerve in my lower back after a car accident. Chiropractic treatment is helping.
Thank you... that was very informative. 👍🌹
Thanks for such a clear explanation of the problem. I really didn't believe you were a doctor until I saw the White Coat! Actually the very clear explanation was the best proof that you know what you are talking about and of course there was no hard sales pitch which nowadays reduces credibility.
Constant dizziness at the same time of development of PN. Is there any connection?
That would be unusual, unless the PN affected blood pressure regulation circuits and in turn caused low blood pressure. But then, the dizziness would tend to occur with standing, not constantly.
Thank you doctor I definitely understand better.
Could over 35 years of being on statin drugs result in neuropathy ? Had stopped taking statins 2 years ago but still have small fiber neuropathy
@ 8:50 you said you would question a diagnoses of PN if someone was numb up to their knees but their hands were fine. Could you elaborate on that because this is what I'm experiencing as the foot numbness + cold came on suddenly one night about a month ago. A few years ago I took a fall + injured my knee + since then occasionally must use a cane. Thanks Doc
In my experience, when my patients have ONLY leg symptoms up to the mid-calf or higher--without any hand/finger symptoms at all--they usually turn out to have low back problems (usually lumbar spinal stenosis). Another thing--when I hear about SUDDEN onset of symptoms restricted only to the leg(s), I get very concerned that the person has a structural problem in the low back, such as a disc herniation causing spinal stenosis. Hope that helps.
Thank you! Which test would be appropriate to determine spinal stenosis? Xray? NCS, MRI? EMG? So far I've had 6 adjustments at the chiropractor but it hasn't yet helped alleviate the numbness in my foot, thanks I appreciate your reply
seeamerica1 I understand the knee injury . That's how you will not know until you experience the numbness in feet and works the leg . My knee injury happened in 2003 and about 3 yrs later my right leg felt like it was running constantly . Now....... numbness started with that same leg foot 2014 and is getting worse . B1 & B12 might stand a chance that I will be taking along with going Vegan(😲) I'm trying to gain weight for I have lost and just had a Carotid Endarterectomy a month ago on the same Right side . We have to fix from the inside out and sweets a no no but gee ! Thank God for RUclips University Because it's Always Good to Be your Own Advocate !!! 💕 I love videos like this that are good for the Brain.......... Respectfully 😏
Thanks for sharing your experience. My knee is always warm to the touch + I never know if when walking the knee will hold me so yeah I usually keep a cane with me. I get shooting pains in my foot + shins now since now I walk with a limp. I've become very frustrated cause I'm still trying to get a xray of my back + knee but my insurance won't pay for it + I don't have extra funds. When going to a regular clinic in town all they will do are blood tests + try to push blood pressure meds on me; but I know the only reason my pressure is up is because I've been taking over the counter pain killers + sleeping pills to get through the night. No need to compound a problem any further than necessary.
My neuropathy started in my feet during chemotherapy. It crept up my legs for years after treatment ended. About 3 years ago, it started in my hands. 🧐
Can severe stress causing insomnia cause PN?
I don't think stress would cause a PN. But, if you have a PN, stress can make the symptoms worse. Just like stress makes the symptoms of just about EVERYTHING worse!
Thank you. You're given me insight into my right side issues. I carried mail for 27 years. I think until we stop treating human labor like factory farm animals there will be millions of problems to keep the medical machine in business. I know doctors want to help but to me, so much trouble could be avoided with a little humanity in the workplace.
You don’t know what is a pain.
Where is having severe pain in my left foot near my right my heel but on the bright side, it's very painful and it is killing me to go to the doctors ASAP cuz I don't know way too long, but it feels like something is in there. But there's a little bump right there. The area is Anyway, I have to go To see the doctors soon.
Nothing new here... I'm NOT expressed with his knowledge or personality at all. Brother James 🙏
I think you meant, "not IMPRESSED." Lol! If you're going to leave random negativity around the universe, at least try to spell correctly.
@@AndrewReevesNeurology People do" make mistakes "Mister Perfect" but what I WROTE STILL STANDS... As a minister/psychologist, I can understand your spirit and mind: CONTROL.... BROTHER JAMES 🙏🦉
I've been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease neurologist trying to get me surgery .no relief in sight. I've got drop foot gait in both legs. I have a little movement in my feet. When I try to move my feet I get feeling like I'm being poked with pin and needle from my feet to my knees.
Hi Ron .... degenerative disc disease .... , o.k. i have pain from left ankle right outer side. And dull on the left side of the leg along the aft side of the bone to left side under the knee where the bone ends and extends forward out . I got it after surgery L5 stenosis , so the thought is it is a nerve somewhere stuck at L5 .
I also feel pain in that area when i move my upper body around... and while walking ...
I started doing heat chock proteins sessions by means of a FAR infra red mattress , just for 3/4 hr lying on the mat ...stimulates circulation and blood flow to the spine ..... drink water a lot keep a good posture while sitting and walk a lot ..and try to get someone look if your hips is not pulling you back to aft too much . I feel progress after feb this year .... until now ..slowly ..but steadily.
Thank you. I now have a better understanding.
Great!
Thanks Doctor!
Hi doc very informative I have permanent neuropathy from alcohol abuse had it for over been sober for seven years I recently was prescribed cipro for an infection seems to have sent my neuropathy anything you could suggest to help would be appreciated .
You took a Fluoroquinolone drug. Irreversible.
I have small fiber neuropathy caused by Sjogrens Syndrome. It took over 3 years to find that this is the cause. Honestly my life is a living hell. I now have no idea what it is like to live a pain free life. I also have Crohn's disease. No medication that I have been given has ever worked for me. The neuropathy is right up to my waist and into my hands. The burning and numbness in my feet is unreal. How do you live like like this?
Hello Karen have you tried any supplements that might help you?
I had an EMG to help diagnose lower leg compartment syndrome, incredibly painful is an accurate description! OUCHIE!
I have to much B6 and it is burning in my hands and feet!
Excellent
Brilliant description of my own personal Neuropathy...small fibre sensory neuropathy .. autonomic (SFSN), thank goodness only my small sensory cutaneous nerves are affected...and I am willing to ENDURE this toe tingling, foot numbness..... for my NIGHTLY enjoyment of 1 beer + 9 shots of Irish Whiskey (Jameson, of course, unless there is a BIG SALE on Tillamook)..it drives my sweet family doc nuts...he always thinks I have diabetes....lol
Would a car accident cause PN? I have had injury to my spine at the cervical and lumbar regions which cause numbness and tingling in my hands and feet. Is this the same as PN?
Yes, I’ve had this problem since my accident. A year ago, both in my hands, fingers, neck and back. I went to see a podiatrist who said there’s nothing wrong with my feet, it’s coming from a compressed nerve in my back.
I went to a chiropractor and it’s already started to ease off a little after the 1st treatment. I will be going again, but he said we need to decompress my spine so it doesn’t squeeze the nerve & gave me a couple of exercise to do. And follow up with him.
Very well explained......thank you.
Glad you found it useful!
Could be arachnoiditis
Thought I was the only one with burning feet and hands, skin feels like pricks at times, can't stand fabric against my legs/feet. Recently had a heart attack, take 7 pills a day, 3 of them twice a day. Take gabapentin three times a day, 100 mg, it worked at first but symptoms have returned. Also been told I have stage 4 kidney disease, no meds for that yet.
What's your diagnosis?
Hope your getting back to health.
My neuropathy, one foot only is due to Lyme infection, raging inflammation, no improvement 19 months and counting.
You could do some research on Essential Oils in that regard. I don't think the verdict in yet, but it is worth a try.
Thank you.
Neuroborreliosis as well as Lyme disease can cause it too! Thanks for your very understandable explaination.
I eat WFPB and take aha/dha and b12 and D. I have peripheral myopathy.
Thanks, this info was very useful
Glad to hear!
best explanation of my condition ever! Thanks Doc. Now cure me!
I wish I could, Al...I wish I could.