TYPES & CAUSES OF PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY
In general, peripheral neuropathies are classified by their location and the type of nerves involved. Examples include:
- Mononeuropathy: affecting a single nerve
- Mononeuritis multiplex: affecting multiple nerves asymmetrically
- Polyneuropathy: affecting multiple nerves symmetrically
- Distal Symmetric Polyneuropathy: affecting multiple nerves symmetrically, starting in the feet and hands
The most common cause of distal symmetric polyneuropathy in western countries is type 2 diabetes. Many patients come to us suffering from what is classified as Diabetic Nerve Pain. Many causes of neuropathy are considered “idiopathic,” meaning the cause is unknown. This can be extremely frustrating for patients and doctors alike. Other causes of Peripheral Neuropathy include:
- Systemic disease
- Autoimmunity
- Vitamin mineral deficiency or overdose
- Genetics
- Viruses & infections
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Toxins
- Prescription drugs
- Chemotherapy
- Physical/Mechanical compression, i.e. sciatica due to disc herniation
