Peripheral neuropathy — numbness, tingling, burning, and pain in the hands and feet — affects an estimated 20 million Americans. At Quest Chiropractic And Acupuncture in Itasca, IL, we provide a multi-faceted approach to neuropathy that stimulates nerve regeneration, improves circulation, and reduces the symptoms that interfere with your daily life. Patients from Itasca, Wood Dale, Roselle, Bloomingdale, and throughout DuPage County come to our office for neuropathy care that goes beyond medication management.
What Is Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves — the vast network of nerves that carry signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body — become damaged or dysfunctional. The condition most commonly affects the hands and feet, though it can involve any part of the body.
The most common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes (diabetic neuropathy), but it can also result from chemotherapy, autoimmune conditions, vitamin deficiencies (particularly B12), alcohol use, infections, exposure to toxins, and physical compression of nerves. In many cases, the exact cause is never identified (idiopathic neuropathy).
Symptoms depend on which type of nerves are affected. Sensory nerve damage produces numbness, tingling, burning, stabbing pain, and heightened sensitivity to touch. Motor nerve involvement can cause muscle weakness, cramping, and loss of coordination. Autonomic nerve damage may affect digestion, blood pressure, and sweating. Many patients experience a combination of these symptoms, and they tend to worsen over time without treatment.
How We Treat Neuropathy
Our approach to neuropathy combines multiple therapies that work together to reduce symptoms and support nerve health. We begin with a thorough evaluation that includes neurological testing, assessment of sensation and reflexes, and a review of your medical history to identify contributing factors.
Acupuncture is a cornerstone of our neuropathy treatment. It stimulates blood flow to damaged nerves, activates the body’s natural pain control systems, and promotes the release of nerve growth factors that support regeneration. Research demonstrates that acupuncture can significantly reduce neuropathic pain and improve nerve conduction in affected areas.
Chiropractic adjustments ensure that the spinal segments serving the affected nerves are properly aligned and free of compression. Spinal misalignments can compound peripheral nerve dysfunction by adding a secondary source of nerve irritation. Restoring spinal alignment optimizes the nerve signals traveling from the brain to the extremities.
We may incorporate infrared light therapy and whole-body vibration therapy, which improve microcirculation to the hands and feet. Increased blood flow delivers the oxygen and nutrients that damaged nerves need to repair. Nutritional assessment and supplementation — particularly B vitamins — may be recommended based on your specific situation.
Benefits of Our Neuropathy Treatment
- Reduced numbness, tingling, and burning sensations
- Decreased neuropathic pain without additional medication
- Improved circulation to the hands and feet
- Support for peripheral nerve regeneration
- Improved balance and coordination
- Optimized spinal nerve function through chiropractic alignment
- Identification and management of contributing nutritional deficiencies
- Slowed progression of neuropathic symptoms
Why Choose Quest Chiropractic And Acupuncture
Neuropathy is often managed with prescription medications such as gabapentin or pregabalin, which can help control symptoms but do not address the nerve damage itself and frequently produce unwanted side effects. Our multi-therapy approach targets the underlying nerve damage, stimulates healing, and manages symptoms simultaneously. For patients looking for a drug-free or complementary treatment option, our office provides a comprehensive alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can peripheral neuropathy be reversed? The degree of reversibility depends on the cause and extent of nerve damage. Neuropathy caused by vitamin deficiencies or nerve compression often improves significantly with appropriate treatment. Diabetic neuropathy may not be fully reversible, but symptoms can be substantially reduced and further progression can be slowed with consistent care. The earlier treatment begins, the better the potential outcome.
How does acupuncture help neuropathy? Acupuncture improves blood flow to the peripheral nerves, which is critical because damaged nerves require oxygen and nutrients to repair. It also modulates pain signaling in the nervous system, reducing the abnormal sensations associated with neuropathy. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture can improve nerve conduction velocity and reduce symptoms in patients with various forms of peripheral neuropathy.
How many treatments will I need? Neuropathy treatment typically involves an initial intensive phase of two to three visits per week for several weeks, followed by a gradual reduction in frequency as symptoms improve. Most patients begin noticing changes within the first few weeks, though optimal results usually require a full course of treatment spanning two to three months. We reassess your progress regularly and adjust the plan based on your response.
Do not accept neuropathy as something you simply have to live with. Call Quest Chiropractic And Acupuncture at (847) 320-0859 or schedule your consultation online to explore treatment options that target the nerve damage itself.