Peripheral Neuropathy and Falls Prevention

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in your body.  It can be classified by the number of nerves affected, the type of nerve cells affected and the process affecting the nerves. Mononeuropathy affects only one nerve and a common example is carpal tunnel. Polyneuropathy involves multiple nerves and usually affects multiple body parts and both sides of the body. This can be caused by diabetes, autoimmune disorders, trauma, alcoholism or vascular disorders. Neuritis is caused by inflammation to a nerve and usually the result of infection, injury or exposure to chemicals. Bell’s Palsy is a common example of neuritis.

What are the Sign and Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy?

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can vary widely due to it affecting sensory, motor and/or autonomic nerves. Symptoms can include absence or loss of sensation, numbness and tingling, pain, sensitivity to light touch, clumsiness or decreased coordination, weakness, bowel and bladder changes, poor wound healing, abnormal nail growth, temperature imbalances, decreased balance and falls. 

How is neuropathy linked to falls?

Peripheral neuropathy is an independent predictor of falls in older adults with an odds ratio of ~1.5-2.5.  This means if an older adult has a baseline fall risk of 25% in the absence of peripheral neuropathy, then peripheral neuropathy increases that risk to as high as 45%. A study in 2021 by Kahn found that older adults with peripheral neuropathy had a prevalence of falls 2.3 times higher than those without peripheral neuropathy.  Falls in older adults can lead to fractures, immobility and a fear of falling that limits their independence and normal daily activities.

What can Physical Therapy do to help?

Research has shown that strengthening exercises for peripheral neuropathy moderately improve muscle strength in people with peripheral neuropathy. A comprehensive physical activity routine includes four kinds of activities: aerobic exercise, flexibility exercise, strength training exercise and balance exercise.  Exercise, when done regularly, has been found to help build strength, reduce neuropathic pain and improve blood sugar levels in individuals with Peripheral Neuropathy.  An evaluation with a physical therapist will help determine your personal areas of weakness and develop a comprehensive plan designed for you to include all four aspects of an exercise routine. 

Strengthening Exercise