Peripheral neuropathy affects parts of the nervous system that send signals to the extremities. Symptoms typically emerge in the toes and feet before symmetrically progressing up the legs. In diabetic neuropathy, another prevalent type, symptoms initiate in both feet, extend to the calves, and may reach the hands. Symptoms include a tingling sensation, burning pain, loss of feeling, and the inability to sense temperature or vibration. While diabetic neuropathy can cause tingling, numbness, and reduced sensation, weakness is less prominent. Notably, a significant number of individuals with diabetic neuropathy may not experience pain, despite reduced sensation. This puts them at risk of neglecting proper foot care and potentially leading to serious injuries, or in severe cases, limb loss. Diabetes is a major contributor to peripheral neuropathy, and nerve compression, excessive alcohol consumption, toxin exposure, and certain medications such chemotherapy can also cause this condition. Autoimmune diseases, hereditary conditions, thyroid disease, and kidney or liver diseases are other potential triggers. If you believe you are suffering from peripheral or diabetic neuropathy in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
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 Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
