Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of nerve damage in the feet, which affects the peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy causes changes in sensation, like tingling and numbness, as well as the inability to feel pain. An estimated 20 million people in the United States have some form of peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral Neuropathy most often affects those with diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain, heat, and cold. Due to the loss of feeling, minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores can go unnoticed. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration and possibly even amputation.
Causes:
- Diabetes
- Poor nutrition
- Injury
- Neuroma
- Exposure to toxins
- Various diseases
Symptoms:
- Numbness
- Burning or pain
- Tingling that is characterized by “pins and needles”
- Feeling like you have on an invisible sock
Treatment Options:
Unfortunately there is no cure for peripheral neuropathy, but there are ways to manage the disease, including:
- Treating underlying conditions
- Symptom management
- Exercising to improve blood flow to the feet
- Increasing the amount of vitamin B into your diet
- Physical therapy
Peripheral neuropathy can become a very serious condition if symptoms and causes are not addressed. If you have any loss of feeling in your feet, you should see a podiatrist immediately, especially if you have diabetes. Click here to request an appointment with one of our podiatric specialists today.
