Exercise Intervention Program for People with Peripheral Neuropathy

Li Li established an Exercise Intervention Program for People with Peripheral Neuropathy. This work is in collaboration with The NeuroMedical Center and The Support Group for Peripheral Neuropathy Patients. Peripheral neuropathy is a debilitating disease affecting approximately 20 million Americans according to the National Institutes of Health Web site. About eight percent of the general population and one percent of people 75 or older have peripheral neuropathy. Preliminary data indicates this program is effectively improving physical functions among the participants.

In the metro Baton Rouge area, estimated more than 48,000 people are affected by peripheral neuropathy–and, approximately more than 6,000 of them are older than 75. Li’s program implements exercise and lifestyle-related changes to help people manage symptoms of the disease. Peripheral neuropathy originated from the degeneration of peripheral nerves. The symptoms are specific to the individual but they usually include numbness, pain, and a burning sensation. For most people the symptoms are more pronounced at night. The development of peripheral neuropathy can lead to loss of balance, difficulty walking and other functional disabilities.

There is currently no treatment for peripheral neuropathy, although there are several medications for neuropathic pain management. Peripheral neuropathy patients share some symptoms with patients with acute and chronic ischemia such as loss of sensation and fine motor control. Pilot data collected by the Department of Kinesiology and research literature indicate that exercise and other interventions geared towards increasing peripheral blood flow and improving peripheral circulation may help patients manage their symptoms and the disease.

By combining faculty research efforts with community outreach and lifelong wellness, Li’s program is fully staffed with exercise instructors and researchers with a variety of exercise equipment to assist patients with long term exercise interventions. The program is free and open to the public. If you or your loved ones have peripheral neuropathy and are interested in participating, please contact 225-578-2036 to receive more information or to register for the program.

Angela Owings Broussard | College of Education
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