Chemo-Induced Neuropathy
St. Luke Integrative Medical Center
Charmaine Ortega, MD,
FACEP
Neuropathy treatment center located in
Huntsville, AL
When your cancer treatment includes chemotherapy, you may find yourself suffering from peripheral nerve pain. This side effect of chemotherapy is an area of expertise for Dr. Yvonne Ortega and her team at St. Luke Integrative Medical Center. They are passionate about using state-of-the-art techniques to help you find relief. If you would like to explore possible treatments for your chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), call or book your appointment online at our Huntsville, Alabama, office today.
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Chemo-Induced Neuropathy Q & A
What is chemo-induced neuropathy?
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a condition of cancer patients who have received chemotherapy as part of their treatment plan. This unfortunate side effect can cause significant nerve-related issues both during and after you have received your chemotherapy treatment.
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This condition is caused by damage done to the peripheral nerve endings and fibers as a result of the chemotherapy. These cancer drugs can damage nerve cells that travel the length of your body, from your spine all the way to your fingers and toes. When these nerves are damaged, you may have a number of issues, ranging from mild pain to lack of muscle coordination.
What are the symptoms of chemo-induced neuropathy?
The symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) are dependent on the type of chemotherapy received as well as the type of nerves and the specific nerve fibers that are damaged during your cancer treatment.
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Symptoms may differ if the damaged nerves are motor or sensory. Motor nerves are responsible for coordinated movement of your muscles, and sensory nerves are responsible for messages associated with touch and feeling.
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Damage to your peripheral nerves may cause issues like:
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Tingling
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Numbness
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Pain
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Weakness
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Balance issues
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Muscle coordination
These symptoms may be significant and may need treatment to avoid getting progressively worse.
What is the treatment for chemo-induced neuropathy?
Dr. Ortega is a leading practitioner in the treatment of peripheral neuropathies. Using state-of-the-art technologies, she utilizes electronic cell signaling to help strengthen damaged nerve tissues. This protects the exposed and damaged nerves, assisting in a potential return of natural conduction and function to the tissues and muscles around the nerves.
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The team at the St. Luke Integrative Medical Center is committed to providing noninvasive, nonsurgical, and non-medicinal solutions to your nerve pain.
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If you would like to explore possible treatment options of your CIPN, call or book your appointment with Dr. Ortega today.