Demystifying Neuropathy: What Causes It and Who's at Risk?
Evangeline Lindorf
Part 1 on Neuropathy
Have you ever experienced tingling, numbness, or burning pain in your hands or feet? These could be signs of neuropathy, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. But what exactly is neuropathy, and what causes it? Let's explore the factors that contribute to this often misunderstood condition.
Understanding Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that occurs when nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord are damaged. These peripheral nerves play a crucial role in transmitting signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. When they become damaged or dysfunctional, it can lead to a wide range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to debilitating pain.
Causes and Risk Factors
So, what causes neuropathy? The truth is, there isn't a single cause. Neuropathy can develop as a result of various underlying conditions, injuries, or lifestyle factors. Here are some common causes and risk factors to be aware of:
Diabetes: Perhaps the most well-known cause of neuropathy is diabetes. High blood sugar levels over time can damage the tiny blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to nerves, leading to nerve damage.
Injuries: Traumatic injuries, such as those sustained in car accidents or sports injuries, can directly damage nerves or put pressure on them, leading to neuropathic symptoms.
Infections: Certain infections, such as shingles, HIV/AIDS, Lyme disease, and hepatitis C, can cause nerve damage and lead to neuropathy.
Autoimmune Diseases:
Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Guillain-Barré syndrome can trigger the immune system to attack the body's own tissues, including nerves, resulting in neuropathy.
Toxins: Exposure to certain toxins, such as heavy metals, chemicals, and certain medications (e.g., chemotherapy drugs), can cause nerve damage and contribute to neuropathy.
Who's at Risk?
Neuropathy can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but certain factors may increase your risk of developing the condition. These include:
Age:
As we age, our risk of developing neuropathy increases. This is partly due to age-related changes in nerve function and circulation.
Family History: If you have a family history of neuropathy or related conditions like diabetes, you may be at higher risk.
Health Conditions: Individuals with certain health conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and kidney disease are more susceptible to neuropathy.
Lifestyle Factors: Poorly managed diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle can all increase your risk of developing neuropathy.
In the next blog post, I'll explore the wide range of symptoms that may indicate neuropathy and discuss why early detection is crucial for effective management. Stay tuned for "Recognizing Neuropathy Symptoms: What to Look For."
Remember, if you're experiencing symptoms of neuropathy or have concerns about your nerve health, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional (come in to see me for help!) for proper evaluation and personalized treatment. Stay informed, stay empowered, and take care of your nerves!
Safe Exercise for People with Hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) If you’ve been diagnosed with hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) , you know that movement can feel tricky. Joints may slip, ache, or feel unstable, and sometimes exercise feels intimidating and overwhelming. However, the right kinds of exercise will help you get stronger, protect your joints, and improve your daily comfort. The goal with hEDS is not to push your body to extremes—it’s to gradually, over time, build gentle strength, stability, and confidence. Why Exercise Matters with hEDS The right types of movement can: Strengthen muscles that support loose joints. Improve balance and body awareness (reducing injury risk). Ease pain and fatigue. Boost mood and energy. Nurse Pro Tip : Think “support” not “stretch.” The goal isn’t more flexibility—you already have plenty—but stability and protection. ✅ Safe & Helpful Exercises When choosing activities, think slow, steady, and supportive. 💧 Water-Based Exercise Swimming, water walking, or gentle aquatic therapy take pressure off your joints while still giving you resistance to build strength. 🧘 Modified Pilates or Yoga Focus on core strength and stability. Skip deep stretches—keep movements small, controlled, and steady. 🏋️ Light Strength Training Resistance bands or light weights help build protective muscle. Stick with lighter loads, higher reps, and slow, intentional movements. 🚶 Walking or Cycling Flat-ground walking and recumbent cycling are gentle, low-impact ways to support cardiovascular health. 🤲 Physical Therapy Exercises A physical therapist who understands hEDS can teach you safe, customized strengthening routines to stabilize your most vulnerable joints. ( Email me @ yourinspiredvitality@gmail.com for personalized recommendations or referrals to Utah PTs familiar with hEDs). ❌ Exercises to Avoid Some activities can increase the risk of injury or worsen symptoms. It’s best to avoid: High-impact sports (running, jumping, contact sports). Heavy weightlifting (places too much strain on joints). Deep stretching or “contortion-like” yoga. Fast-paced HIIT workouts with explosive movements. Gymnastics or flexibility-focused training. Nurse Pro Tip : If the focus of a workout is “how far you can stretch” or “how heavy you can lift,” it’s probably not the right fit for hEDS. 💡 Tips for Moving Safely Listen to your body—stop if something feels wrong. Prioritize stability, not flexibility. Work with professionals who understand hypermobility. Progress slowly—small, consistent steps are safest. ✨ The Bottom Line -- Living with hEDS doesn’t mean avoiding exercise. It means finding the right kind of movement that supports your body instead of stressing it. With gentle, strengthening exercises, you can feel stronger, reduce pain, and enjoy a more active, confident life.
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