Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged. In the feet, it can change how a person feels touch, pain, and temperature. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and burning pain. Some patients also notice unusual sensitivity or a feeling that they are walking on a pebble or bunched-up sock. Weak foot muscles can affect balance and increase the risk of falling. Because numbness can hide a cut or blister, a small injury may worsen before the patient notices it.

Diabetes is a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy, especially when blood sugar is not well controlled. Other causes include vitamin deficiencies, nerve pressure, and certain illnesses. Injury and heavy alcohol use can also damage nerves. A podiatrist can review the patient's health history and perform a careful foot examination. Testing can check sensation, muscle strength, and reflexes. The podiatrist can also examine circulation and check for skin damage. Further testing may be needed to identify why the nerves are not working properly. This helps guide care and protect the feet from injury.

Podiatric care focuses on protecting the feet, improving stability, and preventing serious problems. A podiatrist can treat corns, calluses, or wounds that place the skin at risk. Regular nail and skin care can reduce the chance of injury, especially when patients cannot feel their feet clearly. Custom orthotics can improve pressure distribution and make the feet more stable while walking. The podiatrist can also recommend properly-fitted shoes with enough depth and cushioning. When a wound is present, care includes pressure relief, infection control, and close monitoring. Severe infections can threaten the health of the foot, and, in advanced cases, may lead to limb loss. Routine examinations allow the podiatrist to track changes in sensation and spot problems before they become more serious. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with One of our podiatrists from Mitchell Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.