Neuropathy

Neuropathy: What Is It, Common Types, Causes & Treatment Options

Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the nerves that send signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. When these nerves are damaged, it can lead to pain, tingling, weakness, or numbness, most often in the hands and feet. The most common form is peripheral neuropathy, which affects nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, and diabetic neuropathy, which occurs when long-term high blood sugar damages nerve fibers.

There are several types of neuropathy depending on which nerves are affected:

  • Peripheral neuropathy causes weakness, burning, or loss of sensation in the extremities.
  • Autonomic neuropathy affects involuntary functions such as blood pressure, digestion, and heart rate.
  • Focal neuropathy causes sudden weakness or pain in a single nerve, often in the head, hand, or leg.

Common causes include diabetes, autoimmune conditions, infections, vitamin deficiencies, or exposure to toxins such as alcohol. Some forms are inherited or caused by chemotherapy or other medications. While there is no cure, early diagnosis and a comprehensive care plan can help relieve symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life.

We have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating Neuropathy & Vein Disease and are committed to making sure you receive the care you need.

How We Care for Neuropathy

At Advanced Neurology of Colorado, we specialize in identifying the root cause of neuropathy and designing a personalized care plan to help you manage pain, improve mobility, and protect nerve function. Our care begins with a detailed evaluation to determine if your neuropathy is diabetic, peripheral, or autoimmune-related. We use advanced diagnostic tools—such as nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), and blood panels—to assess nerve health and pinpoint potential underlying conditions.

Treatment may include a combination of medication management, infusion therapy, physical rehabilitation, and lifestyle guidance. For autoimmune neuropathies, we may recommend infusion-based treatments to calm the immune system and reduce inflammation around affected nerves.

Sarah Yang, MD
Board-Certified Neurologist

Contact Us

Whether you're newly diagnosed, looking for a second opinion, or just want to learn more about us, someone from our team can reach out to you to share more information about Advanced Neurology of Colorado.

Note: This form is for new patients or referring providers only. If you are a current patient, please call us at  970-226-6111

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Courtney P.
Patient

Dr. Dasari has been a God-send for my MS. He is incredibly knowledgeable and makes me feel heard. He allocates his time for me as a patient and I know I couldn’t manage this disease without him!

Frequently Asked
Questions

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage, often causing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet. Symptoms may worsen over time and can interfere with balance, coordination, and mobility if left untreated.

What causes neuropathy?
Neuropathy can result from many conditions and environmental factors. The most common cause is diabetes, which can lead to nerve damage due to prolonged high blood sugar. Other causes include:

  • Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12 or folate)
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Vein disease and poor circulation
  • Infections (such as shingles or Lyme disease)
  • Inherited conditions (like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease)
  • Bone marrow or thyroid disorders
  • Certain medications or exposure to toxins
  • Physical injury or pressure on nerves, and low vitamin levels
What causes neuropathy?

Diabetes (most common cause)

  • Vitamin deficiencies (B12, folate)
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Vein disease (chronic venous insufficiency)

How is vein disease related to neuropathy?

Poor circulation from vein disease (varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis) can lead to nerve damage due to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply.

What treatments are available?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Our neurologists often recommend a combination of therapies such as:

  • Medications: Pain relievers (gabapentin, duloxetine)
  • Lifestyle changes: Blood sugar control, compression stockings
  • Physical therapy & exercise
  • Vein procedures: Sclerotherapy, laser therapy
Can neuropathy be reversed?

Early treatment (e.g., controlling diabetes) may improve symptoms, but severe nerve damage is often permanent.

What is the link between vein disease and neuropathy?

Chronic vein diseases (like varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency, or deep vein thrombosis) can impair blood circulation, leading to reduced oxygen and nutrient supply to nerves. Over time, this can contribute to nerve damage (neuropathy), causing symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness—especially in the legs.

How is vein-related neuropathy diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and specialized tests to assess both nerve and vein function:

  • Physical exam (checking for varicose veins, swelling)
  • Doppler ultrasound (to assess blood flow)
  • Nerve conduction studies (NCS) / EMG (to confirm neuropathy)
  • Blood tests (to rule out diabetes, vitamin deficiencies)
What are the warning signs of vein disease contributing to neuropathy?

Look for:  

  • Leg heaviness, swelling, or aching
  • Visible varicose or spider veins
  • Skin changes (darkening, ulcers, or thickening near ankles)
  • Worsening neuropathy symptoms when standing or sitting for long periods
What lifestyle changes help manage vein disease and neuropathy?

Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in managing pain and preventing symptom progression. These include:

  • Exercise regularly (walking, swimming—improves circulation)
  • Elevate legs when resting to reduce swelling
  • Wear compression stockings (if recommended)
  • Avoid prolonged sitting/standing
  • Maintain a healthy weight (reduces vein pressure)
When should I see a specialist for vein disease and neuropathy?

See a vascular specialist or neurologist if you have:

  • Persistent leg pain, swelling, or visible vein issues
  • Numbness/tingling that worsens with standing
  • Non-healing wounds or skin changes
What are common neuropathy symptoms?

Neuropathy symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected. They typically fall into three main categories:

  • Sensory (pain-related) symptoms: Tingling, burning, sharp pain, or loss of sensation in hands or feet.
  • Motor symptoms: Muscle weakness, twitching, or difficulty walking and balancing.
  • Autonomic symptoms: Dizziness, changes in blood pressure, digestive issues, or abnormal sweating.

Early signs of neuropathy may start with mild tingling or “pins and needles” sensations and progress to significant loss of feeling or muscle coordination over time.

We are in-network with all major insurance plans in Northern Colorado. Call our office if you have a question about your specific insurance plan.
Toogether logoToogether logoToogether logoAriseHealth logoOE logo2020INC logoThe Paak logoEphicient logoToogether logoToogether logoToogether logo
Toogether logoToogether logoToogether logoAriseHealth logoOE logo2020INC logoThe Paak logoEphicient logoToogether logoToogether logoToogether logo
Toogether logoToogether logoToogether logoAriseHealth logoOE logo2020INC logoThe Paak logoEphicient logoToogether logoToogether logoToogether logo