Polyneuropathy: symptoms, causes and how physiotherapy can help
Polyneuropathy is a condition of the peripheral nervous system in which several nerves are damaged at the same time. These nerves transmit signals between the brain, the spinal cord and the rest of the body.
In polyneuropathy, this signal transmission is disrupted. Typical symptoms are numbness, tingling, muscle weakness or burning pain, often in the feet or hands.
Many people also report unsteadiness when walking and a fear of falling. This growing instability can limit everyday life considerably and often leads to less movement, which in turn reduces strength and balance further.
The good news: physiotherapy for polyneuropathy can help to improve mobility, strength and confidence in everyday life.
What is polyneuropathy?
In polyneuropathy, several peripheral nerves are damaged. These nerves are responsible for passing information between the central nervous system and the body.
The condition can affect different nerves:
- Sensory nerves (touch, pain, temperature)
- Motor nerves (muscle movement and strength)
- Autonomic nerves (unconscious functions such as digestion or blood pressure)
Depending on the type of nerve affected, the symptoms of polyneuropathy can vary in severity.
Causes and risk factors of polyneuropathy
The causes of polyneuropathy are many. The most common include:
- Diabetes mellitus: one of the most common causes worldwide
- Chronic alcohol consumption
- Vitamin deficiency, in particular vitamin B12, vitamin B1 or folic acid
- Infections such as HIV, Lyme disease or hepatitis
- Autoimmune diseases such as Guillain-Barré syndrome or lupus
- Toxic substances, medication or heavy metals
Identifying the exact cause of polyneuropathy is crucial for medical treatment and the further course of therapy.
Symptoms of polyneuropathy
The symptoms of polyneuropathy can vary depending on the nerves affected and the course of the disease.
Sensory disturbances
- Numbness in the feet or hands
- Tingling or "pins and needles"
- reduced perception of touch or temperature
Nerve pain
- burning or stabbing pain
- symptoms that get worse at rest or at night
Muscle weakness
- Loss of strength, especially in the legs
- Difficulty climbing stairs or standing up
Balance problems
- unsteady walking
- increased risk of falling
Autonomic symptoms
- increased sweating
- digestive problems
- cardiovascular disorders
Many people find the fear of falling particularly distressing. It often creates a vicious circle: less movement leads to further loss of strength and poorer balance.
Diagnosis of polyneuropathy
The diagnosis of polyneuropathy is based on a thorough medical examination and various diagnostic procedures.
Typical examinations are:
- Neurological examination to check reflexes, sensation and muscle strength
- Electromyography (EMG) to measure the electrical activity of the muscles
- Measurement of nerve conduction velocity to assess nerve function
- Blood tests to identify causes such as diabetes or vitamin deficiency
- Nerve biopsy, in rare cases when the diagnosis is unclear
An early diagnosis allows targeted treatment of polyneuropathy.
Treatment of polyneuropathy
The treatment of polyneuropathy depends primarily on the underlying cause.
Medical treatment
Medical treatment approaches include:
- Medication for nerve pain
- Vitamin supplements in cases of deficiency
- Blood sugar control in diabetes
- Immunosuppressants or plasmapheresis in autoimmune diseases
Physiotherapy for polyneuropathy
Physiotherapy is an important part of the treatment of polyneuropathy. The aim is to improve strength, balance and mobility and to prevent falls.
At KINEO Physiotherapie we rely on individual, evidence-based treatment planning.
Our physiotherapy measures include:
- Balance training for fall prevention
- Strength training for muscle weakness
- Gait training for safe walking
- Neuromobilisation
- myofascial therapy
- manual techniques for pain relief
In addition, we use functional everyday training, sensorimotor training and modern training equipment to improve coordination and stability in a targeted way.
Our goal: more confidence, more independence and less fear in everyday life.
Physiotherapy for polyneuropathy in Zürich, Thalwil and Zollikon
At KINEO Physiotherapie we treat patients with polyneuropathy in Zürich, Thalwil and Zollikon with a structured, evidence-based approach.
Our focus is on:
- Improving strength and stability
- Reducing the risk of falls
- Improving balance
- more confidence in everyday life
Through targeted training, many people can significantly improve their mobility and quality of life.
Living with polyneuropathy: tips for everyday life
Living with polyneuropathy can be challenging. With the right strategies, however, it is possible to stay active and independent.
Important measures are:
- regular movement and training
- a balanced diet rich in vitamins
- targeted pain management
- exchange in self-help groups
- regular medical check-ups
Early support through physiotherapy can help to reduce unsteadiness and prevent falls.
At KINEO Physiotherapie we accompany you in a structured, individual way on your path to more stability and quality of life.
Frequently asked questions about polyneuropathy Can physiotherapy help with polyneuropathy?
Yes. Physiotherapy can help to reduce muscle weakness, improve balance and prevent falls. Individually adapted training is an important part of treatment.
Which exercises make sense for polyneuropathy?
Strength training, balance training, sensorimotor exercises and gait training are particularly effective for improving stability and coordination.
Is exercise recommended for polyneuropathy?
Yes. Regular, adapted exercise can help to improve strength, mobility and quality of life.
