What is neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy means the nerves that carry signals between your spinal cord and your arms, legs, hands and feet are not working normally. Symptoms usually start in the toes or fingertips and can slowly spread. Sometimes the problem is in the nerves themselves, as with diabetes. Other times a nerve is being pinched or irritated closer to the spine, in the neck or low back, which can produce very similar symptoms in one arm or leg.
Common symptoms
- Numbness or a “pins and needles” feeling in the feet or hands
- Burning, stabbing or electric-like pain, often worse at night
- Feeling like you are wearing socks or gloves when you are not
- Poor balance, unsteadiness in the dark, or tripping more often
- Weakness in the feet, ankles or grip
- Extra sensitivity to touch, such as bed sheets on the feet
Common causes
- Diabetes or prediabetes, the most common cause
- Pinched nerves in the neck or low back from disc or joint problems
- Vitamin B12 deficiency, heavy alcohol use, or certain medications such as some chemotherapy drugs
- Thyroid or kidney problems, and some autoimmune conditions
- Injury or repetitive pressure on a nerve, such as carpal tunnel
How we can help
Your first visit includes a history and a neurological and orthopedic exam to look for spinal or soft-tissue factors that can irritate nerves. When we find them, care may include:
We coordinate with your primary care doctor or neurologist when the cause is medical, such as diabetes or a vitamin deficiency, so your plan addresses every factor.
What to expect over a care plan
After your exam we explain what we found and whether a spinal source is likely. Most plans start with two or three visits a week for several weeks, combining hands-on care, laser and home exercises, followed by a re-check of sensation, balance and strength. Nerves recover slowly, so we track progress with simple measures such as how far you can walk, how you sleep and how steady you feel.
Protect your feet and balance
- Check your feet daily for cuts or blisters, especially if feeling is reduced.
- Wear supportive, closed shoes and use night lights in hallways.
- Keep blood sugar, B12 and thyroid levels checked as your doctor advises.
- Do your balance exercises daily; small, steady practice adds up.
Related reading: herniated and bulging discs and fibromyalgia.
Seek emergency care for sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, or symptoms that spread quickly over hours or days.
Common questions
Can a chiropractor help with neuropathy?
When a pinched or irritated nerve in the neck or low back is part of the problem, chiropractic care, decompression and laser therapy can help reduce symptoms. When the cause is medical, such as diabetes, we work alongside your doctor.
Is high-intensity laser therapy used for neuropathy?
Yes. High-intensity laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment we use to help calm nerve-related pain and support tissue recovery as part of a broader plan.
How long does it take to feel a difference?
Many patients notice changes in pain or sleep within a few weeks. Nerves recover slowly, so numbness and balance usually improve more gradually over a full care plan.
Can neuropathy be reversed?
It depends on the cause and how long symptoms have been present. Some causes, such as a pinched nerve or a vitamin deficiency, can improve significantly. Others are managed to reduce symptoms and protect function.
Should I see my medical doctor too?
Yes. Blood tests for diabetes, B12 and thyroid function are important. We will refer you or share findings with your doctor so your care is coordinated.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Every patient starts with a history and examination, and we refer to other specialists when a condition falls outside chiropractic care.