Peripheral Neuropathy Education & Help At NY
Methodist Hospital
Questions? Comments? Write: National
Lyme Report Editor Derek Clontz. He reads and answers all e-mails, usually within
minutes and always within one business day.
Latest
News: Peripheral Neuropathy Education & Help At NY Methodist Hospital
Peripheral Neuropathy Education
& Help At NY Methodist Hospital
Rooklyn Heights Courier, New York
Ten to twenty million Americans suffer from some form of peripheral neuropathy, yet
public awareness of this condition is low. Often, those who have one or more signs and
symptoms remain undiagnosed for months or years, sharply reducing their chances for
successful treatment.
The Neuropathy Program at New York Methodist Hospital, a division of the
hospital’s Institute for Neurosciences, is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment
of individuals with peripheral neuropathy.
Neuropathy results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which connect the central
nervous system to the muscles, skin and internal organs. The disorder varies in severity,
but has the potential to be highly debilitating.
Peripheral neuropathy can occur at any age but is most common among older adults. A
neuropathy may arrive suddenly or progress gradually, over a period of years.
“A neuropathy may be the first sign of a previously undiagnosed condition,”
said Adina Goldfarb, MD, director of the electromyography (EMG) laboratory at NYM. These
conditions include diabetes, hepatitis, infectious or rheumatologic disease, cancer or
side effects of medication or chemotherapy.
A neuropathy can be caused by infections, such as Lyme disease; illnesses, cancer,
kidney failure, pressure resulting from repetitive motion or remaining in one position,
rheumatoid arthritis or nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, genetic abnormalities and
damage from direct trauma pressure can also contribute.
While the causes of neuropathy vary, they tend to produce similar symptoms. “Most
often patients suffering from neuropathy will experience weakness, numbness, burning,
tickling or tingling sensations (“pins and needles”), pain in the legs, arms and
feet and difficulty walking,” noted Cary Buckner, MD, director of clinical
neurophysiology at NYM.
Some neuropathies can also cause constipation, diarrhea or sexual dysfunction.
Clinical examinations and tests are used to evaluate and diagnose peripheral
neuropathy. “Through various tests, we are able to determine the severity and often
the underlying cause, and suggest the most promising form of treatment,” said Dr.
Goldfarb.
The program offers uniquely qualified physicians, specializing in the field of
neuropathy, as well as the highly advanced technology needed for its diagnosis.
Neuropathy can frequently be managed and fully controlled, especially when a diagnosis
is established at an early stage. Therapy may involve treatment of an underlying
condition, surgery, physical therapy, splinting or lifestyle changes (for repetitive
stress injuries.)
“Although recovery can be a slow process, after treatment, many patients are able
to return to a healthy and happy lifestyle,” said Dr. Buckner.
New York Methodist Hospital is located at 506 6th Street between 7th & 8th avenues.
For more information about the Neuropathy Program at New York Methodist Hospital, or to
schedule an appointment, call 718-246-8812.
Advertisements
Your ad here. Write National Lyme Report Ad
Power for rates. Reach 40,000 readers each month.
Susan’s Herbs: Trusted source
for over 12,000 herbs and supplements since 1993 - our 15 great year.
Question? Comment? What do you think? Write National
Lyme Report Editor Derek Clontz . He reads and responds personally to every
letter, often within minutes and always within one business day.
Copyright © 2009 4-Page Media, Inc./National Lyme Report.
All rights reserved. |
