Peripheral Neuropathy: Rediscover Mobility and Hope

Peripheral neuropathy can feel like a challenging journey, but there’s hope. In Utah Valley, where majestic mountains meet vibrant trails, we believe in the power of possibility. Our mission is to help you overcome mobility challenges and embrace the wonders of motion—whether it's walking the Provo River Trail, enjoying family hikes, or reclaiming your active lifestyle. 

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, disrupting communication between the body and the nervous system. Its effects on the lower extremities can significantly hinder mobility and quality of life.  It is most commonly described as causing numbness or tingling in the limbs, can cause severe electrical-type pain.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with diabetes being the most common cause. In the United States:

• Approximately 38.4 million people have diabetes, which is about 11.6% of the population.
• Each year, 1.2 million Americans are newly diagnosed with diabetes.
• Of those with diabetes, up to 50% develop some form of neuropathy, with 15-20% experiencing painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Other conditions that can lead to peripheral neuropathy include:

• Chemotherapy: Certain cancer treatments can damage peripheral nerves.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Vitamin Deficiencies: Particularly B-complex vitamins.
• Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol use can lead to nerve damage.
• Infections: Such as shingles, Lyme disease, or HIV.
• Inherited Disorders: Like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Peripheral neuropathy symptoms include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, pain, and loss of balance. The good news? Tailored treatments can significantly improve your quality of life. 

Dr. Jason Rockwood is a surgeon with specialized training in treating peripheral neuropathy caused by nerve compression in the lower extremities. His expertise, shaped by the renowned work of Dr. Lee Dellon at Johns Hopkins Medical School, offers innovative solutions to restore mobility and reduce pain.  He was personally trained by Dr. Dellon on his technique and has safely performed the procedure for years.

Philosophy of Care:

• Grounded in scientific innovation.
• Focused on relieving nerve compression to improve quality of life.
• Empowering patients to move freely and enjoy life to the fullest.

Dr. Lee Dellon, a pioneer in nerve surgery, transformed our understanding of peripheral neuropathy. His research identified the significant role of chronic nerve compression in exacerbating symptoms and developed a surgical approach to address it.

Key Findings:

1.  Nerve Compression's Role:

• Chronic nerve compression often worsens neuropathy symptoms in the lower extremities.
• Decompressing the affected nerves can lead to significant symptom relief.

2.  Decompression Nerve Surgery:

• This minimally invasive procedure relieves pressure on nerves to enhance function and reduce pain.
• Dr. Dellon’s research demonstrated a success rate of up to 80%, with many patients regaining mobility and reducing pain.

3.  Quality of Life Improvements:

• Prevents severe complications like ulcers and amputations.
• Gives patients new hope for an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Dr. Dellon’s techniques have become the gold standard for treating nerve compression in peripheral neuropathy.

Decompression nerve surgery offers a scientifically proven solution for patients with nerve compression. This specialized procedure relieves pressure on the nerves, reducing pain and improving mobility.

Benefits:

• Increased functionality and reduced discomfort.
• Prevention of severe complications.
• A personalized approach to regaining mobility.

“Peripheral neuropathy doesn’t have to define your journey. Together, we can chart a path to freedom and motion.”

Accurate diagnosis is critical for creating effective treatment plans. A thorough evaluation includes:

1. Medical History Review: Examining potential underlying conditions and symptoms.
2. Neurological Exams: Evaluating strength, reflexes, and sensation.
3. Electrodiagnostic Tests: Tools like EMG and nerve conduction studies.
4. Imaging Studies: MRI or ultrasound to detect structural abnormalities.
5. Quantitative Epidermal Nerve Biopsy: A minimally invasive test measuring intraepidermal nerve fiber density. This biopsy is especially useful for identifying small-fiber neuropathy, offering insights into nerve damage and disease progression.

This diagnostic process ensures a comprehensive understanding of your condition, paving the way for targeted, effective treatment.

Managing peripheral neuropathy often starts with conservative treatments:

• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs like gabapentin or pregabalin, and topical treatments.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, balance, and coordination.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Managing underlying conditions, adopting a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.
• Assistive Devices: Orthotics or braces for added support and comfort.

Many patients find relief through complementary and alternative therapies, including:

• Acupuncture: Targeting pain relief through traditional Chinese medicine.
• Herbal Remedies: Anti-inflammatory options like turmeric or cayenne pepper.
• Vitamins and Supplements: Addressing deficiencies (e.g., B-complex vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid).
• Massage Therapy: Improving circulation and providing temporary pain relief.
• Mind-Body Practices: Techniques like yoga and meditation to reduce pain and stress.

Note: Consult with your healthcare provider before trying alternative treatments.

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects millions, yet many in the healthcare community remain unfamiliar with surgical treatment options, such as decompression nerve surgery. Most patients with neuropathy symptoms are offered prescription medications to manage pain or discomfort. While these medications can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying cause of nerve compression, which is often at the heart of the problem.

Why This Matters

Innovative treatments, including decompression nerve surgery, have emerged thanks to the pioneering work of Dr. Lee Dellon and other experts in the field. Their research, supported by numerous published studies, has demonstrated the potential to significantly improve quality of life for patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately, despite this body of work, these surgical options are not widely known or discussed among primary care physicians and other healthcare providers.

This isn’t a matter of oversight—it’s a reflection of how challenging it can be to stay current with every emerging treatment in a complex and ever-evolving medical landscape. Primary care providers always aim to do what’s best for their patients with the knowledge and tools available to them.

Empowering Patients and Providers

Most of the patients that Dr. Rockwood has had the privilege of treating for decompression nerve surgery found him through their own efforts and research rather than through a referral. This underscores the need for greater awareness among both patients and providers.

Dr. Rockwood has written an article to spread awareness about the condition and the work of Dr. Dellon, aimed at bridging this gap in knowledge. We encourage patients and their healthcare providers to explore this article and the resources available on Tim Tollerstrup MD's website about Dr. Dellon’s  work and success.

Imagine a future where movement feels natural again—where walking the Provo River Trail or exploring the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains becomes part of your everyday routine. Living with peripheral neuropathy may present challenges, but with innovative treatments and compassionate care, there is real hope for reclaiming mobility and enjoying life to its fullest. 

At the heart of this process is our commitment to offering thoughtful, evidence-based care, empowering you to take steps toward a more active, fulfilling future. Your journey starts with a conversation, and together, we can find the path that’s right for you. 

While surgery involves multiple incisions and requires careful consideration, it also represents a path to hope for many who have struggled with limited options. Even if surgery isn’t the best fit, exploring conservative care, alternative treatments, or other tailored strategies can still bring meaningful relief and improvement to your life. 

However, it’s important to recognize that each journey is unique. While decompression nerve surgery has provided life-changing benefits for many, it is a specialized procedure that may not be suitable for everyone. That’s why being seen and thoroughly evaluated by Dr. Rockwood is such an essential step. 

During your evaluation, Dr. Rockwood will conduct a detailed assessment to determine if you meet the specific health criteria to be a candidate for surgery. Factors such as overall health, the severity of your condition, and other considerations are carefully reviewed. This personalized approach ensures that every patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, maximizing the likelihood of success. 

Peripheral neuropathy may feel like it’s limiting your journey, but with the right care and expertise, a brighter future is within reach. From conservative approaches to advanced surgical solutions, Dr. Rockwood and his team are here to guide you every step of the way. 

By addressing the root causes of your condition, we strive to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and rediscover the joys of life.

Your path to a more active, fulfilling life starts with a conversation. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rockwood today to begin your journey toward relief and possibility.