Question: Dr. Hibberd, thank you for all the great information. You do a valuable service. I have a family member who has been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy. Can you explain what this is and how to treat it?

Dr. Hibberd’s answer:

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of peripheral nerve function. While most neuropathies affect the senses — causing pain and temperature sensitivity — others may affect motor skills. There are many causes of neuropathies: Medication or chemical toxins, circulation disorders, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, diabetes, thyroid or other endocrine or hormone imbalances, blood disorders, and internal malignancies.
The treatment of neuropathic disease can vary and depends upon its cause. Treatment also aims to reduce damage to affected areas resulting from sensory or motor changes.