If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, burning, or shooting pain in your hands or feet, you may be dealing with neuropathy—a condition that affects the peripheral nerves. Neuropathy can be frustrating and even debilitating, interfering with your ability to walk, sleep, or go about your daily activities. You may be wondering: Can a chiropractor help with neuropathy?
The answer is yes—chiropractic care can play a significant role in managing and even reducing the symptoms of neuropathy, depending on the underlying cause. Let’s take a closer look at what neuropathy is, what causes it, and how chiropractic care can help bring relief.
What Is Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that results from damage or dysfunction in the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. These nerves control sensations, muscle movement, and autonomic functions (like blood pressure and digestion). When they’re damaged, signals between your body and brain can become disrupted, leading to symptoms like:
- Tingling or “pins and needles”
- Burning pain
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Loss of coordination
- Increased sensitivity to touch
Neuropathy most commonly affects the feet and hands but can occur anywhere in the body.
What Causes Neuropathy?
There are many causes of neuropathy, but some of the most common include:
- Diabetes: One of the leading causes of peripheral neuropathy due to long-term high blood sugar damaging nerves.
- Spinal issues: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or misalignments can compress nerves, leading to symptoms.
- Injuries: Trauma or repetitive stress can lead to nerve damage.
- Infections: Certain infections like shingles or Lyme disease can cause nerve inflammation.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can damage nerves over time.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of vitamins like B12 can impact nerve health.
Because the causes vary widely, treatment must be tailored to the individual.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with Neuropathy?
Chiropractors are trained to address nerve-related issues, especially those involving the spine and musculoskeletal system. While they don’t “cure” neuropathy, chiropractic care can relieve pressure on nerves, improve circulation, and support the body’s natural healing processes, helping reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
1. Spinal Adjustments
Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can cause nerve irritation or compression. Chiropractic adjustments realign the spine, helping to relieve pressure on the nerves and restore proper nerve function. For individuals with neuropathy caused by spinal issues, this can make a noticeable difference.
2. Improved Blood Flow
Healthy nerves depend on a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. Chiropractic care can improve blood flow, especially when combined with therapies like massage or stretching. Better circulation can help nourish damaged nerves and support healing.
3. Reducing Inflammation
Inflammation plays a significant role in many cases of neuropathy. Chiropractic techniques such as soft tissue work, laser therapy, or electrical stimulation can help reduce inflammation, which may ease nerve pain and improve mobility.
4. Correcting Posture and Movement Patterns
Poor posture or repetitive strain can contribute to nerve compression. Chiropractors can assess your posture and recommend changes to improve nerve health and reduce symptoms over time.
5. Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance
Many chiropractors offer holistic support, including guidance on nutrition, supplements (like B vitamins), and lifestyle changes. For example, if your neuropathy is related to diabetes or poor circulation, your chiropractor can work with you on strategies to manage blood sugar, improve activity levels, and reduce further nerve damage.
What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit
When you see a chiropractor for neuropathy, they’ll begin with a thorough exam to understand the root cause of your symptoms. This may include:
- A review of your medical history
- Neurological and orthopedic testing
- Posture and gait analysis
- Possible imaging (like X-rays or MRIs)
Once the cause of your neuropathy is identified, a customized care plan will be developed. This might include spinal adjustments, therapies for pain relief, exercise recommendations, and more.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Neuropathy?
Yes—chiropractic care is generally considered safe and non-invasive. It’s especially attractive for people looking to avoid long-term use of medications or more invasive treatments. However, it’s important to work with a chiropractor who has experience treating neuropathy and who will coordinate with your primary care physician or neurologist if needed.
When to Consider Chiropractic for Neuropathy
Chiropractic care may be a good option if:
- You have neuropathy symptoms that are not responding to medication alone.
- Your neuropathy is caused or worsened by spinal or postural issues.
- You want a more natural, drug-free approach to managing your condition.
- You’re seeking a complementary therapy as part of a broader treatment plan.
Final Thoughts
Neuropathy can be a challenging condition, but you don’t have to face it alone. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, whole-body approach that can help reduce symptoms, improve function, and support overall wellness. Whether your neuropathy is caused by diabetes, a pinched nerve, or another underlying issue, a chiropractor may be able to help you find meaningful relief.
If you’re ready to explore how a Waukee chiropractor could benefit your situation, consider scheduling a consultation with a qualified chiropractor in your area.
