Peripheral Neuropathy Education & Help At NY Methodist Hospital

[Guest guest]

Peripheral Neuropathy Education & Help At NY Methodist Hospital

Rooklyn Heights Courier, New York

http://nationallymereport.com/?p=250#more-250

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 tothe

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