Most people think of the nervous system as a single network that controls the muscles and organs. In reality, the nervous system consists of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system.
The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is made up of the nerves that branch out to limbs and organs, including the skin. The function of the peripheral nervous system is to transmit signals to and from the spinal cord and brain1.
Peripheral Nerve Damage
When peripheral nerves are damaged or diseased, information to and from the spinal cord and brain is disrupted. This is often referred to as a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, which often causes poor balance or unsteady walking. If you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy, you may have a heightened risk of falling and sustaining injuries.
Loss of feeling or tingling in the limbs can indicate peripheral neuropathy. Sufferers may also experience muscle weakness, which is especially common in the feet and legs. Other symptoms may include burning or stabbing sensations in the affected limb.
Option for Peripheral Neuropathy
RxFunction provides an effective option to address balance issues stemming from sensory loss due to peripheral neuropathy. Walkasins® Sensory Neuroprosthesis includes a Leg Unit that attaches to the lower leg and a Foot Pad that is worn inside the wearer’s shoe. This new-to-the-market device essentially bypasses damaged nerves to relay balance information through the working areas of the peripheral nervous system.
A restored sense of balance is hugely beneficial to those who are suffering from peripheral neuropathy. The result is improved gait and general mobility. The risk of falling is also significantly reduced for the majority of users while wearing Walkasins Sensory Neuroprosthesis2.
If you would like to learn more about peripheral neuropathy and Walkasins Lower Limb Sensory Neuroprosthesis, call us to talk with a member of the RxFunction team today. We look forward to being able to work with you.
References:
- https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Peripheral-Neuropathy-Fact-Sheet
- Koehler-McNicholas SR, Danzl L, Cataldo AY, Oddsson LIE (2019) Neuromodulation to improve gait and balance function using a sensory neuroprosthesis in people who report insensate feet – A randomized control cross-over study. PLoS ONE 14(4): e0216212. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0216212
