Peripheral Neuropathy (Arms)

What is Peripheral Neuropathy in the Arms?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves are damaged or malfunctioning. In the arms, this can result in sensory and motor disruptions. Unlike issues with the central nervous system, which affect the brain and spinal cord, peripheral neuropathy targets nerves located outside these structures.

When neuropathy affects the arms, it may involve one or multiple nerves. For instance, carpal tunnel syndrome is a form of neuropathy where the median nerve in the wrist is compressed. Other forms, like chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), affect multiple nerves and may cause more widespread symptoms.

What Does Peripheral Neuropathy in the Arms Feel Like?

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in the arms vary depending on the type of nerve affected—sensory, motor, or autonomic. People with peripheral neuropathy in their arms often report the following sensations:

• Numbness or tingling (often described as “pins and needles”)
• Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain
• Muscle weakness or cramping in the arms or hands
• Loss of coordination or difficulty gripping objects
• Sensitivity to touch (even light touch can be painful)

If the autonomic nerves are affected, additional symptoms like changes in blood pressure or heart rate may be present. These sensations may start gradually and worsen over time, especially if the underlying cause is not treated.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy in the arms, including:

• Nerve Damage: Physical injury, repetitive stress, or nerve compression (like carpal tunnel syndrome) can damage the nerves in the arms.
• Chronic Conditions: Diabetic neuropathy is a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, as high blood sugar damages nerves over time.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and lupus can attack and inflame the peripheral nerves.
• Vitamin Deficiency: Low levels of essential vitamins like B12 may impair nerve function.
• Exposure to Toxins: Chemicals, alcohol, and certain medications can harm nerves.
• Infections: Viral and bacterial infections, such as Lyme disease, can cause neuropathy.

Some people are at higher risk, including those with diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or those who work in repetitive motion jobs (like typing or assembly line work).

When to See a Doctor

You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following peripheral neuropathy symptoms in your arms:

• Symptoms persist or worsen over time.
• Loss of muscle strength or muscle weakness affects daily tasks like gripping objects.
• Severe pain, burning, or sensitivity to touch interferes with sleep or activity.
• Numbness or tingling becomes constant or spreads to other parts of the body.

Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent the condition from worsening. Our specialists at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow are experienced in diagnosing and treating nerve damage in the arms.

How Peripheral Neuropathy is Diagnosed

Diagnosing peripheral neuropathy in the arms requires a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

• Physical Exam: The doctor will check for muscle weakness, sensory loss, and reflex changes in the arms.
• Electromyography (EMG): Measures electrical activity in muscles to detect nerve dysfunction.
• Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): Measures how fast electrical signals travel through nerves.
• Imaging Tests: MRI or ultrasound may be used to identify nerve compression or abnormalities in the spinal cord or wrist.
• Blood Tests: Used to check for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders.

How is Peripheral Neuropathy Treated?

The treatment for peripheral neuropathy in the arms depends on the underlying cause, but some of the most common options include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, and antidepressants may help relieve nerve pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises may strengthen muscles, restore coordination, and reduce symptoms.
• Lifestyle Changes: For example, managing blood sugar in people with diabetes can slow nerve damage.
• Braces or Splints: Devices like wrist splints can relieve pressure on compressed nerves, such as in carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Surgery: When nerve compression is severe or other treatments fail, surgery may be recommended to release pressure on the nerve.

Treatment plans are personalized, as the cause and severity of neuropathy differ from person to person.

Living with Neuropathy

Living with peripheral neuropathy in the arms requires managing symptoms and addressing the root cause of the condition. Here are some tips that may help:

• Maintain Healthy Blood Sugar: If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar levels in check can slow nerve damage.
• Reduce Repetitive Stress: Take frequent breaks from tasks that require repetitive arm or hand movements.
• Work with a Physical Therapist: Physical therapy can improve strength and coordination, which may reduce pain and make daily activities easier.
• Protect Your Hands: Use protective gear if you work in an environment where nerve injury is a risk.
• Address Nutritional Deficiencies: Ensuring you have enough B12 and other vital nutrients can support nerve health.

Although peripheral neuropathy in the arms can be challenging, early diagnosis and treatment improve the chances of managing symptoms effectively. Working with the experienced team at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow can provide relief, support, and guidance for long-term wellness.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in your arms, don’t wait for them to worsen. Our experienced team at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Marietta and Atlanta, GA, offers a wide range of treatment options for nerve-related issues, from non-invasive therapies to surgical solutions. 

Our specialists are dedicated to helping you regain strength, reduce pain, and restore function. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey to relief!