Peripheral neuropathy affects millions of people across the U.S., often showing up as tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in the hands and feet. But behind those symptoms is a bigger issue — damaged nerves and disrupted communication between the brain, spinal cord, and body.

At Hansbrough Functional Neurology, we believe prevention starts with understanding how the nervous system functions as a whole. By supporting optimal brain and nerve health — especially for those at higher risk — we can help reduce the likelihood of neuropathy and its long-term effects.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy occurs when peripheral nerves (those outside the brain and spinal cord) are damaged or impaired. These nerves control movement, sensation, and autonomic functions like digestion and circulation. When they malfunction, you might experience:

• Tingling or burning sensations
• Numbness or loss of feeling
• Sharp or shooting pain
• Muscle weakness or coordination issues
• Balance problems

Over time, untreated neuropathy can interfere with daily life — making it hard to walk, sleep, or even feel your feet on the ground.

Who’s at High Risk for Neuropathy?

Certain conditions and lifestyle factors increase your likelihood of developing neuropathy. The most common high-risk populations include:

1. People with Diabetes

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common forms. High blood sugar damages nerves and small blood vessels over time, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness — especially in the feet and legs.

2. Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome or Obesity

Excess inflammation, insulin resistance, and poor circulation associated with these conditions put added stress on nerve tissue.

3. Those with Autoimmune or Inflammatory Conditions

Autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Hashimoto’s disease can trigger immune responses that attack nerve fibers.

4. People Exposed to Toxins or Heavy Metals

Certain medications, alcohol use, and environmental toxins can interfere with nerve function and repair.

5. Individuals with Nutritional Deficiencies

Low levels of B vitamins (especially B1, B6, and B12) can cause or worsen neuropathy because these nutrients are essential for nerve health.

The Functional Neurology Approach to Prevention

Traditional neuropathy treatments often focus on symptom management — pain medications, anti-inflammatories, or lifestyle advice. But functional neurology takes a root-cause approach, asking why nerve communication is impaired and how the brain can be retrained to support recovery and prevent further damage.

Here’s how this perspective makes a difference:

1. Comprehensive Assessment

At Hansbrough Functional Neurology, prevention starts with a deep understanding of your individual nervous system. Our typical evaluation includes:

• Sensory and motor function
• Balance and coordination
• Reflex integrity
• Brain-to-body communication patterns

Why do these things matter? This helps identify early warning signs of dysfunction — sometimes before neuropathy even develops.

2. Addressing Blood Sugar and Metabolic Imbalances

Stable blood sugar levels are crucial for nerve health. We help patients develop strategies for maintaining healthy glucose regulation through nutrition, targeted supplementation, and brain-based metabolic support.

When your brain is better able to regulate blood sugar and inflammation, your nerves are better protected.

3. Reducing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Chronic inflammation can slowly damage nerve tissue. Functional neurology focuses on calming the immune system through anti-inflammatory nutrition, movement programs, and neurological retraining. This helps the nervous system maintain resilience and proper communication.

4. Supporting Circulation and Oxygen Delivery

Healthy nerves rely on proper blood flow and oxygen. We often integrate neurological exercises and balance retraining to improve circulation and autonomic nervous system control — both key in preventing nerve damage.

5. Nutritional and Lifestyle Support

Many cases of neuropathy are linked to nutrient deficiencies or poor absorption. B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3s, and antioxidants all play important roles in nerve repair. Functional neurology combines nutritional strategies with brain-based therapies to enhance nutrient uptake and utilization.

Preventing Neuropathy Before It Starts

For high-risk individuals, prevention is key. Here are some proactive steps you can take — especially when guided by a neurological specialist:

• Monitor blood sugar regularly. Keep A1C levels within range if you’re diabetic or prediabetic.
• Stay active. Movement boosts circulation and supports nerve signaling.
• Eat a brain-healthy diet. Prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
• Limit toxins. Reduce alcohol intake and exposure to chemicals or medications known to impact nerves.
• Prioritize sleep and stress management. Chronic stress alters nerve signaling and hormone balance.
• Get checked early. If you experience tingling, weakness, or numbness, don’t wait. Early intervention can make a huge difference.

Why Prevention Matters

Once nerve damage occurs, it can be difficult to fully reverse — but it’s absolutely possible to slow or stop progression with the right approach. Functional neurology gives patients the tools to restore communication between the brain and body before symptoms become severe.

At Hansbrough Functional Neurology, we combine clinical expertise with a compassionate, individualized approach. Our goal is not just to relieve symptoms — but to optimize how your entire nervous system functions, helping you maintain long-term health and independence.

Take the Next Step Toward Nerve Health

If you’re at risk for neuropathy or already noticing early symptoms, don’t wait until it’s too late. Prevention and early care can protect your nerves and preserve your quality of life.

At Hansbrough Functional Neurology we offer personalized neurological evaluations and functional rehabilitation designed to support your unique needs. Let’s help your brain and body reconnect — so you can move, feel, and live better. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation in Stuart, FL.

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