Our peripheral nervous system sends information from our brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) to the rest of our body.
Peripheral neuropathy is when the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord have been damaged. This usually results in weakness, numbness and pain in the hands and feet. However, peripheral neuropathy can also affect other functions of the body such as digestion, urination and circulation.
Peripheral neuropathy is often the result from traumatic injuries, infections, metabolic problems, inherited causes or exposure to toxins. However, one of the leading causes is diabetes.
Individuals who have neuropathy often describe the symptoms as a stabbing, burning or tingling pain. In most cases, neuropathy symptoms can be improved with medication and if the underlying cause is treated too.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway known as the median nerve that is surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand.
When this nerve is compressed, the pressure will cause carpal tunnel syndrome. This results in symptoms of numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand and arm.
