Unveiling the Most Common Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy
Doctor of Acupuncture, Dr. Melanie Morrill Dr. Ac., of Accessible Acupuncture Edmonton, has treated all kinds of peripheral neuropathy with great success. To have your peripheral neuropathy assessment call 587-879-7122 to schedule today.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. Understanding the causes of peripheral neuropathy is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. In this article, we explore the eight most common causes of peripheral neuropathy, shedding light on the factors that contribute to this condition.
Diabetes
Diabetes, particularly uncontrolled diabetes, is a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy. Prolonged high blood sugar levels can damage the nerves, primarily affecting the feet and hands. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain, often described as diabetic foot pain.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs, while effective in treating cancer, can have adverse effects on the nerves, leading to peripheral neuropathy. The severity of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy varies depending on the type and dosage of the drugs used. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness, and sensitivity to temperature.
Kidney Failure
Chronic kidney disease and kidney failure can contribute to the development of peripheral neuropathy. Kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of electrolytes and toxins in the body. When kidney function is impaired, it can result in nerve damage, causing symptoms such as numbness, weakness, and muscle cramps.
Alcoholism
Excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on the nervous system, leading to alcoholic neuropathy. Alcohol damages nerves directly and also depletes essential nutrients necessary for nerve health. Alcoholic neuropathy often presents with symptoms like numbness, pain, and muscle weakness.
Medications
Certain medications, including some antibiotics, antivirals, and anticonvulsants, can cause peripheral neuropathy as a side effect. These drugs can directly damage nerves or interfere with their normal function. It is essential to discuss potential side effects with healthcare professionals when prescribed such medications. Stopping drugs is not always possible, but treating the neuropathy is.
Genetic Factors
In some cases, peripheral neuropathy can have a genetic component. It is not well understood, but it is important that if you have a family history of “bad feet,” be assessed for peripheral neuropathy.
Idiopathic
Idiopathic peripheral neuropathy refers to cases where the exact cause of nerve damage cannot be identified. Despite extensive medical investigations, the underlying cause remains unknown. Idiopathic neuropathy can present with a wide range of symptoms and requires comprehensive management of pain and discomfort.
Autoimmune Disorders
Certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, can result in peripheral neuropathy. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerves, leading to nerve damage and subsequent symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy is a complex condition with a variety of potential causes. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to neuropathy is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Diabetes, chemotherapy, kidney failure, alcoholism, medication side effects, genetic factors, idiopathic cases, and autoimmune disorders are among the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Identifying the cause can guide healthcare professionals in developing personalized treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.
To have your peripheral neuropathy assessment, call 587-879-7122 to schedule today.
Written by Dr. Melanie Morrill, Dr. Ac. To learn more, visit accessibleacupuncture.ca.
Just Try It: How Prescription to Get Active Helps Albertans 55+ Move More and Live Better
If you’re over 55, you’ve probably heard it before — “physical activity is good for you.”
But finding the motivation or knowing where to start can be tough. That’s where Prescription to Get Active (RxTGA) comes in.
This free, community-based program helps Albertans take the first step toward better health through movement and physical activity — safely, comfortably, and with confidence. Its message is simple and encouraging: Just Try It.
What Is Prescription to Get Active?
Prescription to Get Active (RxTGA) is a not-for-profit program that helps people become more physically active by connecting them with free community resources and supportive facilities.
Instead of writing a prescription for medication, your healthcare professional can write you a specialized prescription for physical activity.
Your RxTGA opens the door to:
Free trial memberships at recreation and fitness facilities
Community activity programs such as pickleball, aquafit, or walking groups
Online movement programs you can do at home
Behavioural support to help you stay motivated
Trail maps and local resources to help you explore your community
It’s all about making movement easier and enjoyable — because every bit of physical activity counts.
Why Get a Prescription for Physical Activity?
When your healthcare professional gives you a Prescription to Get Active, it’s not just a slip of paper — it’s a personalized invitation to move.
Your clinician understands your health history and can help design a plan that’s safe, appropriate, and tailored to you.
This prescription also connects you to RxTGA partner facilities that know how to support older adults who are beginning or returning to physical activity.
That professional encouragement makes a big difference.
For many participants, having a healthcare-backed prescription turns “I should get active” into “I can get active.”
Why Physical Activity Matters More as We Age
Science is clear: moving more is one of the best ways to maintain your health, independence, and happiness as you age.
Live longer and stay stronger. Regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and many chronic conditions — while increasing energy and reducing pain.
Prevent falls and stay independent. Movement that builds strength and balance — like walking, tai chi, or gentle resistance training — helps prevent falls and supports mobility.
Keep your mind sharp. Movement boosts blood flow to the brain, supporting memory and focus, and can help reduce the risk of dementia.
Lift your mood and sleep better. Physical activity releases endorphins — the body’s natural feel-good chemicals — and improves sleep quality.
Build connection and confidence. Group activities and social programs help you meet new people and feel part of a community.
You don’t need intense workouts — just regular movement that fits your life.
What You Get with Your Specialized Prescription
With an RxTGA in hand, you’ll unlock a variety of opportunities designed to help you move:
Free trial access to fitness and recreation facilities
Invitations to community-based activities like walking groups, aquafit, or pickleball
Online physical activity videos you can follow from home
Goal-setting support to help you build lasting habits
Resources and maps for exploring your local trails and parks
The program is built around choice and comfort. You decide how you want to move — whether that’s joining a class, walking with friends, or doing stretches in your living room.
How to Get Your RxTGA
Talk to your healthcare professional. Ask your doctor, nurse practitioner, or another regulated provider if they participate in the program.
Receive your prescription for physical activity. Once you have it, activate it online or bring it to a participating facility.
Start moving. Choose an activity that feels right — walking, swimming, pickleball, dancing, or yoga.
Build your confidence. Add small amounts of physical activity to your routine — even 10 minutes at a time helps.
Check in regularly. Keep your healthcare provider updated and celebrate your progress!
The “Just Try It” Philosophy
Starting something new can feel intimidating — especially if you haven’t been active for a while. That’s why RxTGA promotes the Just Try It mindset.
Don’t wait for the “perfect” time — the time is now.
Don’t worry about doing it perfectly — just show up.
Don’t compare yourself to others — move for your own health and joy.
When you “just try it,” you’ll be surprised by how quickly you feel the benefits — more energy, better sleep, and renewed confidence.
Participant Story: Dianne’s Testimonial
Dianne, an Alberta older adult (74), shares how her Prescription to Get Active helped her reduce depression, improve her physical health, and relieve pain from plantar fasciitis after a period of inactivity.
She tried a few different classes that eventually led to a lifelong routine filled with joy, movement, and connection.
Her message to others?
“Just keep going.”
Watch Dianne’s Story:
A Simple Way to Begin
If you’re wondering how to start, try this gentle plan:
Walk for 10 minutes — inside or outside, wherever you’re comfortable.
Add balance exercises. Stand behind a chair and lift one foot for 20–30 seconds.
Try light strength movements like chair squats or wall push-ups, twice a week.
Stretch or do gentle yoga to stay flexible and relaxed.
Even small movements make a big difference — consistency is the key.
Take the First Step
Whether you want to improve your balance, boost your energy, or simply feel better each day, the first step is to just try it.
Ask your healthcare professional for a Prescription to Get Active, and use it to explore free and welcoming physical activity opportunities near you.
Because when it comes to healthy aging, movement isn’t just something to fit into your day — it’s something that makes every day better.
All you have to do is Just Try It.
For More Information
Visit www.prescriptiontogetactive.com to learn more, find a participating healthcare prescriber, or where you can get your FREE trial or ongoing FREE program.