Alzheimer's & Dementia

Best Acupuncture Treatment Herbal Medicines Medical Skin Treatment Alzheimer dementia memory loss

Did you know dementia not only has effects on memory? In severe cases, it may cause hospital Emergency Departments to have to use chemical or mechanical restraint. A study from Royal Melbourne Hospital recently published by Australian Doctor online showed:

One in five patients needed prescription restraints (i.e. antipsychotics or benzodiazepines)
Some patients also needed mechanical restraint, 40% due to agitation.

Alzheimer's and Dementia may be mentally crippling conditions where memory is lost and loved ones may not even be able to recognize family and friends.

Washington University School of Medicine have discovered that even one night of disrupted sleep is enough to raise levels of the brain protein amyloid beta which is linked with Alzheimer's disease. When this clumps together it can stop neuronal brain cells talking with each other which can destroy neurons and erase memory.

In Australia, more than 1 in 3 adults complain of significant sleep issues, with even more saying they "do not feel refreshed when they wake in the morning". Dr Justin Lim says "Lack of sleep impacts your concentration, you may become forgetful and display irritation. Your cognition deteriorates and even a mild cognitive impairment can be a warning sign for Alzheimer's disease".

Other factors contributing to Alzheimer's include hypertension in the middle years of our lives, and positive factors include "high education" in our younger years. The complex messaging between cells when our brains are functioning more during our secondary and tertiary education time helps improve IQ, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's[1].

Research reported in the Medical Journal of Australia from an international study involving Germany, the US and the UK suggested that lack of navigational skills may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease.

With a variety of factors contributing to our mental and emotional state, Professor Yoland Lim Health Care works in conjunction with fellow medical practitioners and specialists with a general medical holistic patient centered approach to help co-ordinate and integrate care of the patient, including, but not limited to, wellbeing, stress, and mental health.

References

[1] A/Professor Dr Steve MacFarlane Associate Professor and Director of Aged Psychiatry, Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), 3AW Ross and John Morning Show, Melbourne 22/7/2020.

Anosmia

Anosmia is a disorder characterised by the inability to smell. The first cranial nerve known as the Olfactory nerve transports the messages from the nose to the brain. Anosmia is caused by the dysfunction of this olfactory system[1]. Various factors contribute to this such as:

hormonal disturbances
chemicals
diseases of the nervous system
head injuries
numerous medications

Due to the unique ability of olfactory neuron being able to regenerate after injury, the incidence of anosmia may be temporary1. Despite this, losing the sense of smell can have a severe impact on not just health but also on the quality of life[2]. For example, as the sense of smell is closely intertwined with the sense of taste, losing the ability to smell can result in food tasting bland. This can make it hard to eat and drink (decreased appetite) and can affect enjoyment of life revolving around meals[3].

Other difficulties experienced as a result of anosmia include challenges with maintaining personal hygiene and social relationships, feeling less safe and fear of hazardous events such as smoke and gas[2].

Specific treatment for anosmia depends on the underlying cause with studies highlightingthe successful treatment of anosmia cases with acupuncture whereby patients regained the sense of smell following acupuncture sessions[4][5].

References

[1] Better Health Channel (2014, August). Anosmia – loss of smell. betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/anosmia-loss-of-smell

[2] Boesveldt (2017, September). Anosmia – A Clinical Review. Chem Senses Vol 42 (7) 513-523

[3] Health Direct (2018, April). Anosmia (loss of smell) healthdirect.gov.au/anosmia-loss-of-smell

[4] Michael (2003, December). Anosmia treated with acupuncture. Acupunct Med Vol 21 (4) 153-4.

[5] Dai et al (2015) Recovery of Olfactory Function in Postviral Olfactory Dysfunction Patients after Acupuncture Treatment. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Bell’s Palsy

Professor Yoland Lim Acupuncture Best Melbourne Australia Health Without Drugs Migraine Parkinsons

Bell’s Palsy is a sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. It is caused by damage to the facial nerve through a virus infection. For unknown reasons, it is often seen more in young adults of either gender[1]. It has been reported that between 11 and 40 per 100 000 people are affected by the disease worldwide[2].

The inflammation caused by the infection puts pressure on the nerve that controls the facial muscles which ultimately results in paralysis of the face. Some of the most common symptoms include droopy appearance around affected side of the face, eye and mouth, as well as overall numbness.

Some may suffer long-term effects.

A study published in the JAMA Otolaryngology Head Neck Surgery illustrated the factors associated with improved facial function are[3]:

younger age
lower degree of facial nerve paralysis (as measured using the House-Brackmann grade)
good electromyography result (absence of pathological spontaneous fibrillation activity)
absence of diabetes, and
good control of hypertension

According to The Copenhagen Facial Nerve Study, approximately 13% are left with ongoing slight weakness and 4% with severe weakness that often result in major facial dysfunctions.

References

[1] betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/bells-palsy

[2] nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/management-of-bells-palsy

[3] Yoo MC, Soh Y, Chon J, Lee JH, Jung J, Kim SS, et al. Evaluation of Factors Associated With Favorable Outcomes in Adults With Bell Palsy. JAMA Otolaryngology Head Neck Surg. 2020 Jan 23. DOI: 10.1001/jamaoto.2019.4312.

charcot marie tooth discorder

Named after the three physicians who first described it, Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) is a neurological disorder affecting the peripheral nerves – the nerve cells that connect the brain and spinal cord to muscles and sensory organs[1].

While the onset of CMT can occur at any age, progressive muscle weakness is typically noticeable during adolescence or early adulthood[2]. Full expression of CMT’s symptoms generally occurs by age 30. Over time, the affected nerves slowly degenerate and eventually lose the ability to communicate with their targets. This leads to symptoms and signs such as[3]:

§ Weak ankles and curled toes

§ Numbness and coldness of the hands and feet

§ Pain as a result of walking abnormally

§ Loss of fine motor skills

§ Weakness and wasting of the leg muscle (atrophy)

CMT is an inherited disease and the severity can vary depending on the individual. With over 50 different types of CMT, significant research exploring the genes related to the peripheral nervous system is being conducted to find a cure[4]. Treatment for CMT revolves around minimising discomfort and maintaining muscle strength and endurance. This can include[5]:

§ Custom made shoes (orthotics)

§ Leg braces

§ Physical therapy

§ Regularly stretching

§ Engaging in moderate activity to maintain muscle strength and endurance

§ Assistive devices such as thumb splints

[1] Muscular Dystrophy Foundation. Facts about Charcot-Marie-Tooth Diaease mdaustralia.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/001_charcot_marie_tooth-disease-july-2012.pdf

[2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2018, June) Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Fact Sheet ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Charcot-Marie-Tooth-Disease-Fact-Sheet

[3] Health Direct (2018, October) Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease healthdirect.gov.au/charcot-marie-tooth-disease

[4] CMT Australia. What is CMT? cmtaustralia.org.au/what-is-cmt/

[5] Brain Foundation Australia. Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disorder brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/charcot-marie-tooth-disorder/

Dementia

Dementia is a group of conditions/symptoms that affects the brain resulting in a progressive decline in day-to-day functioning. There are multiple causes of dementia such as neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease (accounting for 50-70% of cases), traumatic brain injury and brain tumours.

In Australia, dementia is the second leading cause of death with 1 in 10 people over the age of 65 affected[1]. However, it is important to note, although the risk of being affected by dementia increases with age, anybody can be affected[2].

Some of the most common symptoms include[3]:

memory loss
apathy and withdrawal
sleep disturbances and
personality and behavioural changes

To date, physicians and researchers have highlighted evaluation and diagnosis of dementia to include four elements[4]:

1) Thorough clinical history

2) Neurological examination

3) Metabolic and physiologic abnormalities, and

4) Structural brain scan

Although there are medications to reduce some symptoms of dementia, there is no current cure. As dementia can be a result of multiple health factors, current emphasis is placed on initial evaluation and early diagnosis.

References

[1] Dementia Australia. What is dementia? https://www.dementia.org.au/about-dementia/what-is-dementia

[2] Kuruppu, D, Matthews, B (2013) Young-onset dementia. Seminars in Neurology Vol 33 (4) 365-385. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1359320
[3] Gale et al (2018, October) Dementia. The American Journal of Medicine Vol 131 (10) 1161-1169

[4] Better Health Channel (2016, May) Dementia explained. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/dementia

Dystonia

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that causes the muscles in the body to contract or spasm involuntarily[1]. It can be categorised into three types[2]:

1. Focal dystonia- where muscle contracting affects one part of the body

2. Segmental dystonia- affects two or more adjacent parts of the body, and

3. General dystonia- affects all parts of the body.

Dystonia can vary in severity as well as the area(s) of the body affected.

It commonly affects the:

Neck
Eyelids
Jaw
Hands, and
Forearms.

Depending on the form of dystonia, the symptoms differ. However, typically the earliest symptoms of dystonia involve the legs with disruptions to gait and walking[3].

The exact cause of dystonia is unknown but it is thought there are a multitude of factors which may play a role in the onset of dystonia. These factors include[4]:

Genetics
Acquired from a brain injury such as in cerebral palsy or hemidystonia
Certain medications that affect the brain.

Currently there are no specific prescription medications to prevent or slow the progression of dystonia. However, there are several strategies that may ease some of the symptoms of dystonia[5]. For example, injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin (‘Botox’) can provide temporary improvement of the muscles.

References

[1] Brain Foundation Australia. Dystonia brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/dystonia/

[2] Mayo Clinic (2020, April) Dystonia mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dystonia/symptoms-causes/syc-20350480

[3] UCLA Neurosurgery. Dystonia uclahealth.org/neurosurgery/dystonia

[4] Dystonia Network of Australia. What causes dystonia? dystonia.org.au/what-is-dystonia/

[5] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2012, January) Dystonias Fact Sheet ninds.nih.gov/disorders/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/dystonias-fact-sheet

Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR)

With the increasing use of technology in Australia, there has been more “health concerns related to possible Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR)” “in the range of 0‑300 GHz” [1] (also known as Electromagnetic Energy (EME), Electromagetic Fields (EMF), causing Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity (EHS)). The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPNSA) is the “Australian Government’s primary authority on radiation protection and nuclear safety”. They provide reports on mobile phones, broadcasting transmitters, powerlines, induction heaters, microwave ovens, smart meters and other personal, industrial and scientific EMR producing equipment[2].

Even though another Australian Government’s body, the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications stated that “EME does not have enough energy to cause direct damage to molecules, such as DNA, that could impact human health[3]” the Australian Communications and Media Authority have published rules for a range of devices[4] to keep EME at safe levels.

Patients may be concerned with a range of triggers, such as wifi, lights in shopping centres, mobile phone towers, computers, which are stated by some to be causing a range of symptoms, including:

Abdominal pain
Concentration difficulties
Confusion
Disorientation[5]
Fatigue
Feeling uncomfortable
Headache
‘Heavy’ feeling in the muscles
Nausea
Neck pain
Redness, burning and tingling of the skin
Ringing in the ears.

According to the ARPNSA if you are still concerned about using mobile phones there are several steps you can take to reduce your exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic energy (RF EME)[6]:

1. Use the hands-free mode when making a call, as it extends the distance between the “mobile and your head which reduces your exposure to RF EME”[7].

2. Send a text instead of making a call as when calling a mobile phone is in “constant communication with the base station which also exposes you to RF EME”. By sending a text this exposure is shortened and reduced. However excessive usage and typing into a phone may raise the risk of Iphone tendonitis, a term coined by Dr Justin Lim after seeing a rise in the number of patients with this in recent times.

3. Limiting the length of your phone calls reduces exposure to RF EME.

4. Make calls where reception is good. When making a call in an area of poor phone reception your mobile phone has to increase its RF EME output to communicate with the base station. When making a phone call in an area with good phone reception, your mobile phone does not need to use as much RF EME.

Some people are able to live with their symptoms, while others require additional assistance. If your have any concerns, please speak with your medical practitioner.

References

[1] arpansa.gov.au/research/surveys/electromagnetic-radiation-health-complaints-register

[2] arpansa.gov.au/research/surveys/electromagnetic-radiation-health-complaints-register

[3] communications.gov.au/documents/health-research-about-electromagnetic-energy

[4] acma.gov.au/our-rules-eme

[5] anres.org/electromagnetic-hypersensitivity/

[6] arpansa.gov.au/research-and-expertise/surveys-and-studies/brain-tumour-study

[7] arpansa.gov.au/research/surveys/electromagnetic-radiation-health-complaints-register

Functional Neurological Disorders (FND)

Functional neurological disorders (FND) previously known as conversion disorder is a disorder characterised by the dysfunction of the nervous system and how the brain receives and sends signals[1]. For a long time, FND was termed as conversion disorder as it was thought psychological distress was being converted to physical symptoms[2].

Symptoms of FND include[3]:

Motor dysfunction
Seizures
Vision impairments
Speech difficulties
Paralysis

The exact cause of FND is unknown but it is thought there are predisposing factors that can make individuals more susceptible to FND such as[4]:

Having another neurological condition
Chronic pain
Fatigue
Stress

As FND encompasses a variety of symptoms, it is treated using a multidisciplinary approach. Management strategies can include any of the following in combination with each other:

cognitive behavioural therapy
physiotherapy
speech therapy and
occupational therapy.

There are no known prescription medicines to treat FND directly but some medications may relieve other symptoms present in FND[2]. Acupuncture has also been shown to show positive benefits[5].

References

[1] Cock (2018) Functional neurological disorders: acute presentations and management.doi: 10.7861/clinmedicine.18-5-414

[2] Harvard Medical School (2019, March) Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder) health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/conversion-disorder-functional-neurological-symptom-disorder-a-to-z

[3] SANE Australia (2018, April) Functional neurological disorder: the silent illness sane.org/information-stories/the-sane-blog/mental-illness/functional-neurological-disorder-the-silent-illness

[4] National Organisation of Rare Disorders. Functional Neurological Disorder. rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/fnd/

[5] Functional Neurological Disorder. FND Treatments fndhope.org/fnd-guide/treatment/#

Headaches

Throughout life, most people will experience headache pains around the head, neck or face area at some stage during their lifetime. Around 15% of Australians are taking pain relief medication for headaches at any given time[1].

There are more than 300 different types of headaches[2].

Headaches can be classified into two broad categories[3]:

1. Primary headaches. These headaches are the most common and include tension headaches, migraines and cluster headaches. In most cases, primary headaches are caused by a variety of factors such as stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, eye strain and poor posture.

2. Secondary headaches. Secondary headaches are caused by an underlying health condition such as in head injury cases and concussions.

Generally, headaches can be treated by[4]:

Drinking plenty of fluids
Using pain relief medication as directed
Maintaining good posture
Reducing stress such as engaging in yoga, meditation or massage.

References

[1] Better Health Victoria (2015, June) Headache betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/headache

[2] Migraine and Headache Australia. Headache types headacheaustralia.org.au/types-of-headaches/

[3] Health Direct (2017, October) Headaches healthdirect.gov.au/headaches

[4] Healthy WA – Department of Health. Headache healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Headache

Memory loss

Memory Skin Treatment Dr Justin Lim Dr Selina Lim Professor Yoland Lim Health Care Laser JUVEFACE

Memory loss or forgetfulness is a common worry in our lives. It is normal to forget things from time to time and also as you age. It is important to note that not all memory loss or forgetfulness is the first sign of a serious underlying health condition such as Alzheimer’s disease[1].

However, when there are significant pronounced changes in memory loss, investigation by a medical practitioner should be considered. This will enable early diagnosis that will be helpful as it will allow early access to preventative measures, support and information[2].

Possible causes of reversible memory loss include[3]:

Prescription Medications alone, or in combination with others
Minor head trauma or injury, even without losing consciousness — this may cause memory problems.
Emotional Stress, anxiety or depression
Alcoholism, especially chronic alcoholism
Vitamin B-12 deficiency as Vitamin B-12 normally helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells
Hypothyroidism- underactive thyroid
Brain diseases such as a tumor or infection in the brain.

References

[1] U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2018, January) Do Memory Problems Always Mean Alzheimer’s Disease? nia.nih.gov/health/do-memory-problems-always-mean-alzheimers-disease

[2] Health Direct (2018, October) Worried about your memory? healthdirect.gov.au/worried-about-your-memory

[3] Mayo Clinic “Memory loss: When to seek help”

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/in-depth/memory-loss/art-20046326

Meniere’s Disease

Meniere’s Disease is a disorder of the ear characterised by a change in the volume of fluid in the labyrinth found in the inner ear. As the inner ear is primarily responsible for our balance and hearing, individuals who have Meniere’s Disease typically experience sensations of the world spinning around them known as vertigo causing a:

loss of balance
hearing hissing
roaring or ringing noises in the ear known as tinnitus
loss of the ability to hear and
heightened sensitivity to noise[1]

In many cases, Meniere’s disease is confined to one ear and symptoms persist as episodes last on average between two to four hours[2].

The exact cause of Meniere’s Disease is unknown but it is thought a combination of these factors play a role in its onset[3]:

Constriction of blood vessels
A consequence of viral infections, allergies or autoimmune reactions
A result of genes

There are currently no strategies to cure Meniere’s Disease. However, there are multiple treatment strategies available to help manage and treat it including[2]:

Changes to diet with the aim to restrict salt, water, caffeine and alcohol intake
Nutritional supplements
Prescription medications that reduce fluids (diuretics)
Surgical procedures involving draining fluid procedures from the inner ear or removal of the balance nerve.

References

[1] Better Health Victoria (2017, July) Ears – Meniere’s disease betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/ears-menieres-disease

[2] Brain Foundation Australia. Meniere’s disease brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/menieres-disease/

[3] National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) (2017, February) Meniere’s disease nidcd.nih.gov/health/menieres-disease#2

Migraines

Migraines can be a very debilitating condition. Not only are they painful, they also can cause nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light and noise, weird visual auras and sensations, problems concentrating and missing many days off work and school. For some it can be a problem for over 20 to 30 years and impacts all aspects of life and severely affecting on ones social, family and work life.

Harvard Medical School[1] announced that a 2012 medical study involving approximately 18,000 individual patients over 23 high-quality randomized controlled trials of acupuncture showed that acupuncture is beneficial for headache, along with low back pain and osteoarthritis.

Additionally, the safety profile of acupuncture is excellent, without drugs, without side effects. Other potential benefits include lowering blood pressure to long-lasting improvements in brain function. Acupuncture has emerged as an important non-drug option that may help chronic pain patients avoid the use of potentially harmful medications, especially opiates with their serious risk of substance use disorder.

References

[1] health.harvard.edu/blog/acupuncture-for-headache-2018012513146

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the communication between the brain and other parts of the body. It affects up to 25,600 people in Australia, with over 2 million diagnosed worldwide[1]. The national MS society estimates that MS is two to three times more common in women than men[2]. While most are diagnosed between the ages of 20-40 years, MS affects both the young and the old alike.

As symptoms vary greatly from one person to another, MS can be difficult to diagnose. Symptoms may range from mildly disabling to very significant. According to a 2017 report by The European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) an average diagnosis of MS takes approximately five visits to healthcare professionals. Over one-fifth of those surveyed were initially misdiagnosed with a different illness[3].

Early intervention is critical as not seeking immediate treatment may cause the delay of definitive diagnosis of MS which can impact the longer-term course of disease as well as quality of life.

Some of the common symptoms associated with MS are problems with motor control such as muscular spasms, difficulty with functioning of arms and legs, sexual dysfunctions as well as fatigue, depression and other neurological problems such as double vision and vertigo.

A 2013 study performed by Global Advances in Health and Medicine has shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for MS[4]. Acupuncture has also been proven to relieve some of the common MS symptoms such as pain, spasticity and numbness[5].

References

[1] msaustralia.org.au/what-ms

[2] nationalmssociety.org/Chapters

[3] ectrims-congress.eu/2017.html

[4] ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3833581/

[5] nationalmssociety.org/NationalMSSociety/media/MSNationalFiles/Brochures/Brochure-Acupuncture-in-MS.pdf

Motor Neuron Disease (MND)

MND encompasses various conditions such as:

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Progressive Muscular Atrophy (PMA)
Progressive Bulbar Palsy (PBP) and
Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS).

In the USA MND is commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, after a famous baseball player who died of the disease[1]. In Australia, prominent ex-Essendon AFL footballer Neal Daniher also has this. ALS affects men more frequently than women, and in 10% of all ALS patients it is thought to be due to a mutation in the gene for an enzyme called copper/zinc superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1)[2].

What is MND?

Neurones (nerve cells) descend from the brain down the spinal cord, which then control and activate the lower motor neurones which innervate (supply neurological messages) to the muscles all around our body. This control of muscles allows us to direct the human body’s basic needs of muscle movement, speech, respiration (breathing) and deglutition (swallowing). MND is the name of the group of diseases in which these neurones fail to work normally. Muscles then gradually weaken and waste, as neurones degenerate and die[3].

What causes MND?

The cause of MND is currently not known, but viruses, exposure to certain toxins and chemicals, genetic factors, inflammation and damage to neurons due to an immune system response suspected to be contributing.

Symptoms[1]

MND often begins with weakness of the muscles in the hands, feet or voice, although it can start in different areas of the body and progress in different patterns and at different rates. Commonly:

muscle aches, cramps, twitching
clumsiness, stumbling
weakness or changes in upper and lower limbs
changes to voice, slurred speech, swallowing or chewing difficulty
fatigue
muscle wasting, weight loss
being more emotional
cognitive change (changes in thinking processes)
respiratory changes

Prognosis

MND patients become increasingly disabled. Life expectancy after diagnosis is one to five years, with 10 per cent of people with MND living 10 years or more3. The needs of MND patients are complex and vary from person to person.

References

[1] Better Health Channel (2018, November) Motor neurone disease (MND). betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/motor-neurone-disease

[2] Mayo Clinic (2019, August) Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354022

[3] MND Australia. What is motor neurone disease (MND)? mndaust.asn.au/Get-informed/What-is-MND.aspx

Neurapraxia

The peripheral nervous system is integral in conveying signals such as movement and sensing signals between the spinal cord and the rest of the body. As there is a wide range of cells (nerve cells and ‘maintenance’ cells) each contributing differently in the peripheral nervous system, peripheral nerve damage varies in aetiology and severity. Extensive research in the field has classified nerve injury into broad categories based on type of damage to the nerve and the extent of the damage[1].

Neurapraxia is a fairly common condition caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system. It is the mildest form of injury and is characterised by no damage to the nerve itself but instead the structural features around the nerve (known as myelin[1]).

Typically neurapraxia occurs when a nerve has been stretched or compressed beyond its normal range[2]. The severity of damage to the myelin will result in the symptoms and their duration.

Symptoms include:

numbness,
a burning or stinging sensation, and
weakness.

Often, the damaged myelin is able to repair itself allowing the affected nerves to return to normal. Further, if symptoms linger, massage, physical therapy and acupuncture may ease symptoms[2]. If nerve injury is related to more serious conditions, imaging tests as well as visiting your healthcare professional is advised.

References

[1] Menorca et al (2015, April) Peripheral Nerve Trauma: Mechanisms of Injury and Recovery ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4408553/

[2] Roland (2017, August) What is Neurapraxia? healthline.com/health/neurapraxia

Paraesthesia

Paraesthesia is the sensation where your skin feels itchy or numb for no apparent reason[1].

Almost all of us at one stage in our lives have experienced this. Typically paraesthesia is felt in the extremities (hands, arms, legs or feet) but can also occur in other parts of the body.

In many cases paraesthesia is temporary and is usually due to sustained pressure that is placed on a nerve. These instances may arise for example when one sits with their legs crossed for too long or sleeping on your arm for too long. Once the pressure is relieved, the feeling of “pins and needles” generally disappears.

If the abnormal sensation does not resolve on its own, there may be an underlying medical condition associated, or if the pressure on the nerves is sustained and continues it is known as chronic paraesthesia. This may herald more permanent damage. Typically this is a sign of neurological disease or traumatic nerve damage[2].

Common disorders which may cause chronic paraesthesia include[3]:

Stroke
Multiple sclerosis
Encephalitis
Tumours that are pressed up against the brain or spinal cord
Carpal tunnel syndrome

Addressing the underlying problem that is causing the chronic paraesthesia is important as it may lead to the improvement of condition[4].

References

[1] Healthline (2016, April) What Is Paresthesia? healthline.com/health/paresthesia

[2] Sharif-Alhoseini (2012, February) Underlying Causes of Paresthesia DOI: 10.5772/32360

[3] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2019, March) Paresthesia Information Page ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Paresthesia-Information-Page

[4] The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (2015, March) Paraesthesia and peripheral neuropathy racgp.org.au/afp/2015/march/paraesthesia-and-peripheral-neuropathy/

Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition of the nervous system primarily affecting movement. Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:

hand tremors
shuffling gait
fatigue
sleep disturbance
freezing (of movement)
bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
muscle stiffness and
apathy[1]

These symptoms begin when a sub population of nerve cells in the brain stop working properly and gradually expire[2]. The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown with plausible factors such as genes and toxins in the environment playing a role[3].

Of the 4 in 1,000 people in Australia affected with Parkinson’s disease, treatment and severity of symptoms varies1. Unfortunately there are no traditional western medical treatments to slow the progression of Parkinson’s. However, there are a number of therapies which can help alleviate and manage movement problems[4]. These treatments include restoring dopamine levels in the brain, deep brain stimulation and continuous drug infusions.

References

[1] Better Health Channel (2017, April) Parkinson’s disease. betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/parkinsons-disease

[2] Brain Foundation Australia. Parkinson’s Disease. brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/parkinsons-disease/

[3] Health Direct (2018, November) Parkinson’s disease. healthdirect.gov.au/parkinsons-disease

[4] The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health. Parkinson’s disease. florey.edu.au/diseases-disorders/parkinsons-disease

Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which damage is seen in the communication network of our body that is responsible for sending signals to the brain. When peripheral nerves stop working, it results in the disruption of functions of our entire body; of which there are 2 main types:

Sensory (i.e. touch, taste, smell, hearing) motor (i.e. walking, running)
Autonomic (i.e. digestion, sweating and balance)[1]

Some of the common causes include:

heavy alcohol intake
diabetes
nerve damage and
chronic diseases such as cancer, liver disease and kidney disease.

The symptoms can range from mild to disabling depending on the severity of damage and the affected nerves[2]. Common symptoms include aching, weakness, numbness or cramping in the affected area which are often worse at night. The disease could develop over weeks or even years.

References

[1] Health Direct (2017, November) Peripheral neuropathy. healthdirect.gov.au/peripheral-neuropathy

[2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Peripheral Neuropathy Fact Sheet. ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Peripheral-Neuropathy-Fact-Sheet

Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs or restless legs syndrome (RLS) is characterised by unpleasant, uncomfortable and tingly sensations in the legs causing an irresistible urge to move them[1].

As the name suggests, RLS typically occurs when a person is resting, sitting down or sleeping. Due to this RLS can cause serious sleep problems[2]. In fact, at least 80 percent of individuals affected with RLS have a related condition where the legs twitch or jerk during sleep called periodic limb movement of sleep (PLMS)[3].

RLS symptoms can range from mild to severe and include symptoms such as:

An overwhelming urge to move your legs
Trouble falling asleep
Trouble staying asleep
Fatigue
Daytime sleepiness

Current research is investigating the exact cause of restless legs but it is thought and known other health problems can result in restless legs such as:

kidney disease
iron deficiency
diabetes
Parkinson’s disease, and arthritis[4].

In the majority of cases, the exact cause of RLS is as yet unknown. Conventional western medicine treatments aim to relieve symptoms rather than cure the condition[5]. This can range from limiting the intake of caffeine, alcohol and nicotine to managing any underlying conditions such as diabetes or anaemia. Furthermore, studies have shown that maintaining a regular sleep pattern may reduce symptoms[6].

References

[1] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (2020, March) Restless Legs Syndrome Fact Sheet ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Restless-Legs-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet

[2] Persons (2018, February) The 11 Best Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome healthline.com/health/restless-leg-syndrome/treatments

[3] Pietrangelo (2016, November) Everything You Need to Know About Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) healthline.com/health/restless-leg-syndrome

[4] Health Direct (2020, January) Restless legs syndrome healthdirect.gov.au/restless-legs-syndrome

[5] Better Health Channel (2014, June) Restless legs syndrome (RLS) betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/restless-legs-syndrome-rls

[6] Brain Foundation Australia. Restless Legs Syndrome brainfoundation.org.au/disorders/restless-legs-syndrome/

Sciatica

Sciatica is a particular type of pain arising from the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in the body and passes in the buttock, to the back of the thigh all the way to the heel and sole of the foot. It controls the sensation and function of the leg and the foot.

In many cases pinpointing the exact cause of sciatica is difficult with the range of causes including[1]:

Spinal injury or trauma
Protruding intervertebral discs
Bone spurs
Narrowing of the spinal canal
Tight or swollen muscles in the buttock

Symptoms of sciatica include[2]:

Hot pain in the buttock
Pins and needles
Increased pain when lifting, straining or coughing
Loss of power to the muscles of the leg and foot
Pain in the ankle and foot

Sciatica may go away on its own within a few hours to days but some cases may prolong for several weeks or even months[3]. Professor Yoland Lim Health Care has seen patients where this has been ongoing for several years. Regular medical treatment of sciatica may include drug therapies involving pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy, rest and lifestyle changes. Furthermore, studies have shown the positive benefit of acupuncture therapy in sciatica cases[4].

References

[1] Health Direct (2018, August) Sciatica healthdirect.gov.au/sciatica

[2] Better Health Channel (2015, August) Sciatica betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/sciatica

[3] Harvard Medical School (2016, February) Sciatica: Of all the nerve health.harvard.edu/pain/sciatica-of-all-the-nerve

[4] Ji et al (2015) The Efficacy of Acupuncture for the Treatment of Sciatica: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis doi: 10.1155/2015/192808