Peripheral neuropathy refers to the irritation or damage of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Common signs include tingling, burning pain, numbness, sensitivity to cold or heat, weakness, cramping, and balance issues. Causes vary: diabetes and prediabetes, spine or joint compression (pinched nerves), vitamin deficiencies, medication effects (including some chemo drugs), autoimmune conditions, infections, alcohol overuse, and trauma from work, sports, or car crashes.
Why this matters: Two people can both have “neuropathy,” but they need very different treatment plans. The first step is a careful assessment to identify likely drivers and eliminate potential red flags.
Can chiropractic care cure neuropathy?
No. Most cases of neuropathy are not “curable.” However, when combined with active rehabilitation and smart medical co-management, chiropractic care can often reduce symptoms, improve mobility, enhance balance, and support daily functioning. The goal is to alleviate mechanical irritation, enhance joint mobility, and promote safer patterns—while medical teams address glucose control, medication issues, wound care, and other systemic factors.
How a ChiroMed-style program helps
A modern chiropractic program doesn’t rely on one tool. It blends gentle hands-on care with progressive exercise and lifestyle support:
Low-force spinal and extremity adjustments to restore motion and reduce local nerve stress.
Soft-tissue therapy (myofascial techniques, instrument-assisted work) to ease guarding and improve circulation.
Nerve mobility drills (nerve glides) to reduce sensitivity where appropriate.
Traction/decompression for select patients with disc or foraminal narrowing.
Balance, gait, and strength training to lower fall risk and protect joints.
Lifestyle coaching on sleep, stress, ergonomics, and foot care; nutrition support coordinated with your medical team.
Acupuncture or electro-acupuncture in clinics that offer it, to modulate pain and sensitivity.
Safety first (and always)
Chiropractic care is generally low-risk when delivered after a thorough interview and physical examination. Your clinician should screen for red flags, adapt techniques to account for bone density and age, adjust for diabetes or chemotherapy history, and co-manage with your primary-care clinician, neurologist, endocrinologist, podiatrist, or pain specialist when necessary.
Call your medical team or urgent care first if you develop:
sudden severe weakness or paralysis
bowel or bladder changes, groin numbness
rapidly worsening numbness with foot wounds or infection
unexplained fever, night pain, or weight loss
cancer history with new bone pain
How chiropractic integrates with traditional medicine
Think team sport.
Diabetic neuropathy: medical teams focus on glucose control, wound/foot care, and medication choices; chiropractic care adds mobility, balance exercises, and joint care to protect walking and daily activities.
Spine-related neuropathy (radiculopathy): chiropractors address motion, posture, and stability, while physicians guide imaging, medications if needed, and surgical opinions for non-responders or those with red flags.
Post-injury neuropathy (work/sport/MVA): Coordinated plans address soft-tissue strain, scar, and joint mechanics; objective testing and documentation support a safe return to work or sport.
What results should I expect?
Results depend on cause, severity, and time. Some people feel better in weeks; others progress slowly over months. Programs that combine hands-on care, progressive exercise, balance training, and lifestyle steps tend to produce the best long-term function and comfort. Expect regular re-checks with objective measures (sensation, strength, balance, gait, daily tasks).
A sample 12-week roadmap (personalized to your exam)
Weeks 1–4 | Calm & Protect
Low-force adjustments and gentle soft-tissue work
Basic nerve-glide and mobility drills, tolerance-based
Foot-care education and home safety for fall prevention
Short walking intervals; sleep and stress routines
Weeks 5–8 | Rebuild
Posture, hip/core strength, ankle/foot stability
Balance and gait training; ergonomic coaching
Consider traction/decompression or acupuncture where indicated
Nutrition tweaks (with your medical team) for inflammation and glucose control
1) Will I still need medications? Maybe. Chiropractic is complementary. As movement and sleep improve, some people need fewer pain meds—decisions are made with your prescribing clinician.
2) Are adjustments painful? Most patients tolerate them well. We can start with very gentle, low-force methods and progress as you gain confidence.
3) How often are visits? Usually more frequent early on, then fewer as you learn self-care. Re-testing guides when to taper.
4) What about imaging or nerve tests? If your exam suggests it—or if progress stalls—your team may order X-rays/MRIs, EMGs/NCVs, labs, or vascular studies.
5) What can I start at home? Daily foot checks, short walks, simple balance drills by a counter, gentle mobility, and a regular sleep routine. For diabetic cases: medical-guided glucose control and protective footwear.
6) Is this safe if I’m older or osteoporotic? Yes, with proper screening and adapted techniques (instrument-assisted, mobilization, or position-based methods).
7) Does this help after a car crash or work injury? Yes. Plans target alignment, soft tissue, and movement patterns; clinicians also document objective findings to support authorizations and return-to-work decisions.
What to look for in a clinic
Clear explanation of findings and plan, in plain language
Customized techniques (not one-size-fits-all)
Built-in active rehab (balance, gait, strength)
Coordination with your medical team
Regular outcome measurements and progress notes
Education on home care and prevention
The take-home message
Not a cure—but helpful. Modern chiropractic care, combined with active rehabilitation, can help reduce neuropathic pain, improve mobility, and support a safer daily life.
Safety and teamwork matter. Screening, personalization, and medical co-management make care smarter and safer.
Movement is medicine. Gentle hands-on care plus progressive exercise and healthy habits protect gains and prevent setbacks.
Uncover the benefits of chiropractic care for treating peripheral neuropathy and nerve pain while enhancing overall health.
Chiropractic Care for Peripheral Neuropathy: A Comprehensive Guide to Reducing Nerve Pain
Peripheral neuropathy is like that annoying neighbor who keeps blasting music at 3 a.m.—it disrupts your life, makes you uncomfortable, and leaves you desperate for relief. For the millions of people dealing with this condition, the tingling, burning, or numbness in their hands, feet, or other extremities can turn simple tasks like tying shoelaces or walking the dog into a Herculean effort. But here’s the good news: chiropractic care, especially when guided by experts like Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, in El Paso, Texas, might just be the key to turning down the volume on that nerve pain. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the clinical rationale behind why chiropractic care can help reduce nerve pain associated with peripheral neuropathy, explore the musculoskeletal system’s role in this condition, and highlight how Dr. Jimenez’s unique approach makes him a go-to for personal injury victims in El Paso. So, grab a comfy seat (preferably one that doesn’t pinch your nerves), and let’s get started!
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy? The Nerve-Wracking Basics
Imagine your nervous system as the body’s electrical wiring, with the peripheral nervous system acting as the cables that carry signals from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body. Peripheral neuropathy happens when these cables get frayed, damaged, or short-circuited, leading to symptoms like tingling, burning, numbness, or even muscle weakness. According to Verywell Health, peripheral neuropathy refers to a range of conditions caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, which can stem from various culprits like diabetes, chemotherapy, infections, or traumatic injuries (Falk, 2023).
The symptoms can range from mildly annoying—like feeling like your foot’s asleep after sitting too long—to downright debilitating, where even a light touch feels like a zap from a Taser. Peripheral neuropathy can affect sensory nerves (think touch and pain), motor nerves (muscle movement), or autonomic nerves (automatic functions like heart rate or digestion). Depending on the cause, it might present as a mononeuropathy (one nerve affected) or polyneuropathy (multiple nerves), with symptoms often starting in the toes and feet and creeping upward (Falk, 2023).
For many, peripheral neuropathy isn’t just a medical issue; it’s a daily life disruptor. Tasks like buttoning a shirt, walking without stumbling, or even sleeping without pain become challenging. And when you throw in causes like diabetes or chemotherapy, which are common triggers, the stakes get even higher. So, how does the musculoskeletal system get tangled up in this nerve-racking mess? Let’s find out.
The Musculoskeletal System’s Role in Peripheral Neuropathy
The musculoskeletal system—your bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints—is like the scaffolding that keeps your body upright and moving. But when peripheral neuropathy enters the scene, it’s like a wrecking ball hitting that scaffold. Nerve damage can mess with the signals that control muscle movement and sensation, leading to a domino effect of issues that impact your daily routine.
How Peripheral Neuropathy Affects the Musculoskeletal System
Muscle Weakness and Atrophy: If motor nerves are damaged, the muscles they control can weaken or waste away. Imagine trying to lift a grocery bag when your arm muscles are on strike—tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even holding a coffee mug become a struggle (Falk, 2023).
Loss of Coordination: Sensory nerves help you feel where your body is in space (proprioception). When they’re compromised, you might stumble or feel like you’re walking on a tightrope, even on flat ground. This can lead to falls, especially in older adults, turning a simple trip to the mailbox into an adventure (Falk, 2023).
Joint Instability and Pain: Damaged nerves can reduce feedback to joints, leading to poor alignment or overuse injuries. For example, if you can’t feel your feet properly, you might unknowingly put extra stress on your knees or hips, causing pain or inflammation over time (Falk, 2023).
Spinal Misalignments and Nerve Compression: Here’s where the musculoskeletal system and peripheral neuropathy get extra cozy. Misalignments in the spine (subluxations) or compressed spinal nerves can exacerbate or even mimic neuropathy symptoms. Research suggests that spinal canal compression might contribute to polyneuropathy by impinging on nerve roots, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling that radiates to the extremities (Pinto et al., 2016).
Impact on Daily Life
These musculoskeletal changes can turn your daily routine into a comedy of errors—minus the laughs. Dropping things, tripping over your own feet, or feeling like your hands are wearing oven mitts 24/7 can make work, hobbies, or even self-care feel like climbing Mount Everest. For instance, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, one of the most common forms, often leads to foot numbness, increasing the risk of unnoticed injuries or infections (Hicks & Selvin, 2019). And for those recovering from personal injuries, like car accidents, nerve pain can compound existing musculoskeletal issues, making recovery a longer, bumpier road.
Why Chiropractic Care? The Clinical Rationale for Nerve Pain Relief
Chiropractic care is like a superhero swooping in to save the day for your nervous system. By focusing on the spine and musculoskeletal system, chiropractors aim to restore balance, reduce nerve interference, and promote healing—without relying on drugs or surgery. But how exactly does this help with peripheral neuropathy? Let’s break down the clinical rationale, with a nod to the expertise of Dr. Alexander Jimenez, whose integrative approach is making waves in El Paso.
Spinal Alignment and Nerve Function
The spine is the highway for your nervous system, and any roadblocks—like misaligned vertebrae or subluxations—can disrupt traffic, causing nerve irritation or compression. Chiropractic adjustments use manual or mechanical techniques to correct these misalignments, reducing pressure on nerve roots and improving signal flow to the peripheral nerves (Bussières et al., 2018). For example, if a herniated disc in your lower back is pinching a nerve, it could send shooting pain or numbness down your leg, mimicking peripheral neuropathy. Adjustments can relieve this pressure, potentially easing symptoms (Jimenez, 2023a).
Dr. Jimenez, with his dual expertise as a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, takes this a step further. At his Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic, he uses advanced imaging (like MRIs and X-rays) to pinpoint spinal issues that might contribute to nerve pain. His “dual-scope” approach combines chiropractic adjustments with medical diagnostics to create precise, personalized treatment plans (Jimenez, 2023b). Think of it as using GPS to navigate a tricky road instead of just guessing the way.
Reducing Inflammation and Pain
Peripheral neuropathy often comes with inflammation, especially in cases caused by chemical or mechanical insults to nerve roots, like those from diabetes or trauma (Younger et al., 2009). Chiropractic care, including techniques like spinal decompression or soft tissue mobilization, can reduce inflammation by improving blood flow and calming irritated tissues. Dr. Jimenez often incorporates manual therapies like myofascial release to ease muscle tension and promote healing, which can take the edge off nerve pain (Jimenez, 2024).
Enhancing Autonomic Nervous System Function
The autonomic nervous system (ANS), which controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion, can also be affected by peripheral neuropathy, especially in conditions like diabetic neuropathy or chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) (Vinik et al., 2013). Chiropractic adjustments may positively influence the ANS by reducing spinal stress, improving parasympathetic nervous system reactivity, and promoting balance in bodily functions (Welch & Boone, 2008). Dr. Jimenez’s integrative protocols often include nutritional guidance and lifestyle changes to support ANS health, addressing underlying issues like blood sugar imbalances in diabetic neuropathy (Jimenez, 2023c).
Non-Pharmacological Pain Management
For those wary of popping pills or facing the side effects of medications like intravenous lidocaine (used for chronic pain but with risks like dizziness or heart issues), chiropractic care offers a non-invasive alternative (Attal et al., 2021). Non-pharmacological interventions, such as those recommended for CIPN, include physical therapies like chiropractic adjustments, which can reduce pain and improve function without the need for drugs (Cavaletti et al., 2019). Dr. Jimenez’s holistic approach often pairs chiropractic care with acupuncture or massage therapy to boost endorphin release and calm the nervous system (Jimenez, 2024).
Supporting Personal Injury Recovery
In El Paso, where car accidents are as common as cacti in the desert, peripheral neuropathy can be a lingering effect of trauma like whiplash or spinal injuries. Dr. Jimenez shines here, using his expertise to bridge medical care and legal documentation for personal injury cases. His clinic employs advanced imaging to document injuries like herniated discs or nerve compression, which not only guides treatment but also supports insurance claims or legal cases (Jimenez, 2023d). Patients rave about his ability to connect the dots between their injuries and symptoms, ensuring they get both relief and fair compensation (Jimenez, 2023e).
References Attal, N., et al. (2021). Intravenous lidocaine for treatment of chronic pain: A retrospective cohort study. Pain Medicine, 22(6), 1265-1273. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34196791/ Bussières, A. E., et al. (2018). Spinal manipulative therapy and other conservative treatments for low back pain: A guideline from the Canadian Chiropractic Guideline Initiative. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 41(4), 265-293. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29680316/ Cavaletti, G., et al. (2019). Prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) with non-pharmacological interventions: Clinical recommendations from a systematic scoping review and an expert consensus process. Cancers, 11(12), 1920. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31816957/ Jimenez, A. (2023a). Holistic recovery from nerve injuries. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023b). Chiropractic care effectiveness for five musculoskeletal issues. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023c). Functional medicine – Neurological health. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023d). Dr. Alex Jimenez chiropractor and injury recovery. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023e). Real patients, real results: Chiropractic care. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2024). Rehabilitation with Dr. Jimenez: Comprehensive recovery solutions. El Paso Chiropractor Blog. https://www.elpasochiropractorblog.com Vinik, A. I., et al. (2013). Understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system in health and disease. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 4, 109. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23986719/ Welch, A., & Boone, R. (2008). Parasympathetic nervous system reactivity moderates associations between children’s executive functioning and social and academic competence. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 7(4), 135-141. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19646371/ Younger, D. S., et al. (2009). Chemical and mechanical nerve root insults induce differential behavioral sensitivity and glial activation that are enhanced in combination. Brain Research, 1280, 168-176. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19497363/
Peripheral Neuropathy: A Successful Recovery Story- Video
Dr. Alexander Jimenez: El Paso’s Chiropractic Champion for Personal Injury
If El Paso were a comic book, Dr. Alexander Jimenez would be the superhero swooping in to save victims of personal injuries from the clutches of pain and bureaucracy. With over 25 years of experience as a chiropractor and board-certified family nurse practitioner, Dr. Jimenez brings a unique “dual-scope” approach to his Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic. His ability to blend chiropractic expertise with medical diagnostics makes him a standout in treating complex conditions like peripheral neuropathy, especially when caused by trauma from car accidents or workplace injuries (Jimenez, 2023f).
Advanced Imaging and Diagnostics
Dr. Jimenez doesn’t just guess what’s wrong—he uses high-tech tools like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays to get a clear picture of your spine and nervous system. For example, if you’ve been in a fender-bender and now have tingling in your legs, he might spot a herniated disc or spinal misalignment that’s pinching a nerve. These diagnostics are crucial for identifying the root cause of neuropathy symptoms, whether it’s a mechanical issue like spinal compression or a systemic one like diabetes (Jimenez, 2023g).
Dual-Scope Procedures
What sets Dr. Jimenez apart is his ability to wear two hats: chiropractor and nurse practitioner. His dual-scope procedures involve combining hands-on chiropractic adjustments with medical evaluations, like blood panels to check for metabolic issues or inflammation markers. This holistic approach ensures that he’s not just treating symptoms but addressing underlying causes, whether they’re biomechanical (like a misaligned spine) or physiological (like hormonal imbalances) (Jimenez, 2023h).
Legal-Medical Liaison
For personal injury victims, Dr. Jimenez is like a translator who speaks both “doctor” and “lawyer.” He provides detailed medical reports that link your injuries to the accident, which is gold for insurance claims or legal cases. His clinic’s focus on evidence-based care means every adjustment, therapy, or recommendation is backed by solid diagnostics, making it easier to secure fair compensation while getting you back on your feet (Jimenez, 2023i).
Why El Paso Needs Dr. Jimenez
El Paso’s busy roads and high traffic volume mean car accidents are a fact of life. Whiplash, spinal injuries, and nerve damage are common, and peripheral neuropathy can sneak in as a delayed symptom. Dr. Jimenez’s integrative care, combining chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional support, helps patients recover faster and more fully. His clinic is a one-stop shop for healing and legal support, making him a vital resource for the community (Jimenez, 2024).
References Jimenez, A. (2023f). Dr. Alex Jimenez chiropractor and injury recovery. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023g). Chiropractic care effectiveness for five musculoskeletal issues. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023h). Functional medicine – Neurological health. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023i). Board certified nurse practitioner Dr. Alex Jimenez. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2024). Rehabilitation with Dr. Jimenez: Comprehensive recovery solutions. El Paso Chiropractor Blog. https://www.elpasochiropractorblog.com
How Chiropractic Care Reduces Overlapping Risk Profiles
Peripheral neuropathy doesn’t travel alone—it often brings friends like diabetes, chemotherapy side effects, or post-traumatic stress from injuries. These overlapping risk profiles can make treatment tricky, but chiropractic care, especially under Dr. Jimenez’s guidance, tackles them head-on.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, with high blood sugar damaging nerves over time (Hicks & Selvin, 2019). Chiropractic care can’t cure diabetes, but it can reduce nerve pain by improving spinal alignment and blood flow, which supports nerve health. Dr. Jimenez often pairs adjustments with nutritional plans to stabilize blood sugar, addressing the root cause while easing symptoms (Jimenez, 2023j).
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
Chemotherapy can wreak havoc on nerves, leaving cancer survivors with tingling or pain that lingers long after treatment (Cavaletti et al., 2019). Non-pharmacological interventions like chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture can reduce CIPN symptoms by promoting nerve recovery and reducing inflammation. Dr. Jimenez’s clinic uses these therapies alongside functional medicine to support overall healing (Jimenez, 2024).
Post-Traumatic Neuropathy
Car accidents or workplace injuries can cause nerve damage through direct trauma or secondary issues like spinal compression (Younger et al., 2009). Chiropractic care addresses these by relieving pressure on nerve roots and restoring musculoskeletal balance. Dr. Jimenez’s use of advanced imaging ensures that even subtle injuries are caught early, preventing chronic neuropathy (Jimenez, 2023k).
Autonomic Nervous System Imbalances
When neuropathy affects the autonomic nervous system, it can lead to issues like irregular heart rate or digestive problems (Vinik et al., 2013). Chiropractic adjustments may improve ANS function by reducing spinal stress, while Dr. Jimenez’s integrative approach includes lifestyle changes to support systemic health (Jimenez, 2023l).
By addressing these overlapping risks, chiropractic care offers a holistic path to relief, reducing the need for medications and their side effects while empowering patients to regain control of their lives.
References Cavaletti, G., et al. (2019). Prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) with non-pharmacological interventions: Clinical recommendations from a systematic scoping review and an expert consensus process. Cancers, 11(12), 1920. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31816957/ Hicks, C. W., & Selvin, E. (2019). Emerging nonpharmacologic interventions to treat diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 31(10), 711-727. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31088290/ Jimenez, A. (2023j). Functional medicine – Neurological health. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023k). Dr. Alex Jimenez chiropractor and injury recovery. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Jimenez, A. (2023l). Board certified nurse practitioner Dr. Alex Jimenez. El Paso, TX Doctor of Chiropractic. https://dralexjimenez.com Vinik, A. I., et al. (2013). Understanding the role of the autonomic nervous system in health and disease. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 4, 109. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23986719/ Younger, D. S., et al. (2009). Chemical and mechanical nerve root insults induce differential behavioral sensitivity and glial activation that are enhanced in combination. Brain Research, 1280, 168-176. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19497363/
Practical Tips for Managing Peripheral Neuropathy with Chiropractic Care
Ready to give chiropractic care a try? Here are some practical tips to get started, with a sprinkle of humor to keep things light:
Find a Qualified Chiropractor: Look for someone like Dr. Jimenez, who’s got the credentials (DC, APRN, FNP-BC) and a track record of helping neuropathy patients. Bonus points if they can make you laugh while adjusting your spine!
Expect a Thorough Evaluation: Your first visit will likely include a physical exam, medical history review, and possibly imaging. It’s like a detective mission to find the root of your nerve pain—Sherlock Jimenez to the rescue!
Commit to a Treatment Plan: Chiropractic care isn’t a one-and-done deal. Regular adjustments, combined with therapies like massage or acupuncture, can gradually reduce symptoms. Think of it as training for a marathon, not a sprint.
Incorporate Lifestyle Changes: Dr. Jimenez often recommends diet tweaks (like cutting sugar for diabetic neuropathy) and exercises to support nerve health. It’s like giving your nerves a spa day—minus the cucumber slices.
Stay Patient and Positive: Nerve healing takes time, so don’t expect miracles overnight. But with consistent care, you might find yourself dancing to your favorite tune without wincing in no time.
For El Paso residents, contacting Dr. Jimenez’s clinic at 915-850-0900 or visiting chiromed.com is a great first step. His team’s integrative approach ensures you’re not just a patient but a partner in your healing journey.
References Jimenez, A. (2023m). Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic. A4M. https://www.a4m.com Jimenez, A. (2024). Rehabilitation with Dr. Jimenez: Comprehensive recovery solutions. El Paso Chiropractor Blog. https://www.elpasochiropractorblog.com
Conclusion: A Serious Note on Chiropractic Care for Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy can significantly impact quality of life, but chiropractic care offers a promising, non-invasive approach to managing nerve pain and improving function. By addressing spinal misalignments, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall nervous system health, chiropractors like Dr. Alexander Jimenez in El Paso provide hope for those struggling with this condition. His dual expertise as a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, combined with advanced diagnostics and a commitment to holistic care, makes him a trusted resource for personal injury victims and neuropathy patients alike. For those in El Paso, his clinic’s integrative protocols and legal-medical liaison services ensure comprehensive recovery and support.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Peripheral neuropathy is a complex condition, and treatment outcomes vary by individual. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as a chiropractor or medical professional, to determine the best course of action for your specific needs. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Alexander Jimenez at 915-850-0900 or visit chiromed.com.
Excessive alcohol consumption: what is alcoholic peripheral neuropathy?
Alcoholic Peripheral Neuropathy
Alcoholic peripheral neuropathy (ALN) is a condition that damages the nerves in the body due to chronic alcohol consumption. It can cause sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction, which can lead to disability. This damage prevents the nerves from communicating information. Most symptoms generally start as mild but typically worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses. The most common symptoms are: (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Numbness or tingling sensation in the extremities
Pain or a burning sensation in the extremities
Difficulty walking
Difficulty urinating
Difficulty talking or swallowing
Affected nerves include the peripheral and autonomic nerves, which help regulate internal body functions. Around 46% of chronic alcohol users will eventually develop the condition. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Causes
The exact cause of alcoholic neuropathy is unclear. But it is directly related to heavy and long-term alcohol consumption. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019) It is believed overconsumption of alcohol can directly harm and hinder the nerves’ ability to communicate information. Unhealthy nutritional habits are often associated with it as well. Research shows that decreased thiamine/B vitamin plays a role, while others suggest an overall dietary deficiency may play a role. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019) However, alcoholic neuropathy can also occur without the presence of malnutrition. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Neuropathy Development and Progression
Alcoholic neuropathy develops depending on many factors, including the amount of daily/nightly alcohol consumed, age and overall health, nutritional intake, and other individual factors. In most cases, the neuropathy takes several years or decades to develop, depending on the amount of alcohol consumed.
Pain or burning sensation in the arms, legs, or feet.
Symptoms that occur in the arms and legs typically affect both sides.
Cramps, aches, or weakness of the muscles.
Constipation or diarrhea.
Nausea and vomiting.
Difficulty urinating or incontinence.
Difficulty walking.
Difficulty talking or swallowing.
Heat intolerance.
Erection difficulties.
Most symptoms begin as mild and usually worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses. Alcoholic neuropathy affects individuals who consume excessive amounts of alcohol over a long time. (Julian T., Glascow N., Syeed R., & Zis P. 2019)
Healthcare providers will collect data involving past medical history and all current symptoms.
Physical Exam
This exam looks at other medical conditions contributing to symptoms, like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Neurological Exam
This is a noninvasive exam to determine the location and extent of neurological damage.
Healthcare providers may ask patients several questions and have them complete a series of small movements to check neurological function.
Blood and Urine Tests
These tests can detect diabetes, liver and kidney problems, infections, vitamin deficiencies, and other conditions that can cause neuropathic conditions.
Chronic alcohol use can also affect how the body stores and uses vitamins necessary for healthy nerve function. Vitamin levels that a healthcare provider may check include: (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Vitamin A
Biotin
Folic acid
Niacin, or vitamin B3
Pyridoxine, or vitamin B6
Pantothenic acid
Liver Disease
Individuals with chronic liver disease often have neuropathy. The severity and stage are associated with a higher incidence of neuropathy. (Pasha MB, Ather MM, Tanveer MA, et al. 2019)
Treatment
Alcoholic neuropathy is not reversible, even when quitting drinking. However, individuals with the condition can make healthy changes to minimize symptoms and receive help for chronic alcohol use. The first step is stopping alcohol consumption. (Chopra K., & Tiwari V. 2012) Talk to a healthcare provider about what options are available. Treatment can include:
In-patient or outpatient rehab
Therapy
Medication
Social support from groups like Alcoholics Anonymous
A combination of treatments will likely be utilized. Other treatment options involve symptom management and preventing further injuries and may include:
Physical therapy
Keeping the head elevated while sleeping.
Orthopedic splints to maintain limb function and positioning.
Wearing compression stockings.
Adding vitamins and supplements.
Eating extra salt for those without hypertension
Medications to reduce pain and discomfort.
Intermittent catheterization or manual expression of urine for those with difficulty urinating.
Individuals with neuropathy may have reduced sensitivity in the arms and legs. If this occurs, additional steps need to be taken to prevent other injuries, that include (National Library of Medicine, 2023)
Wear special footwear to prevent foot injuries.
Checking feet daily for wounds.
Prevent burns by ensuring that bath and shower water is not too hot.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
Peripheral Neuropathy Myths and Facts
References
National Library of Medicine. (2023). Alcoholic neuropathy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000714.htm
Julian, T., Glascow, N., Syeed, R., & Zis, P. (2019). Alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Neurology, 266(12), 2907–2919. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00415-018-9123-1
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2024). Peripheral neuropathy. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/peripheral-neuropathy
Pasha MB, A. M., Tanveer MA, et al. (2019). Frequency of peripheral neuropathy in chronic liver disease. Med Forum Monthly, 30(8), 23-26. https://medicalforummonthly.com/index.php/mfm/article/view/3761
Chopra, K., & Tiwari, V. (2012). Alcoholic neuropathy: possible mechanisms and future treatment possibilities. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 73(3), 348–362. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2011.04111.x
