If you are experiencing stabbing or burning nerve pain, numbness, weakness, or tingling in the feet, you may have peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a dysfunction of the body’s peripheral nervous system, which is outside of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by some sort of damage or illness to a nerve (or nerves)—anywhere along the pathway from the spine to the feet—or from spinal problems. It may also be associated with certain medical conditions such as arthritis, Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, Lyme disease, or shingles. Alcoholism or side effects from certain medications may even damage the peripheral nerves. Peripheral neuropathy should not be taken lightly, as it may lead to the formation of foot ulcers or circulatory disorders, as well as other complications. If you believe you may have peripheral neuropathy, make an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to have your condition diagnosed and treated properly.

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 Bruening 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 offices located in Covina and Alta Loma, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.