One of the symptoms that are associated with neuropathy includes a burning sensation in the feet. This can be a result of nerve damage and it can also cause a tingling or numbing feeling. Diabetic patients may develop neuropathy, and this can be from having elevated blood sugar levels. Additionally, other medical conditions can cause neuropathy, such as obesity and high blood pressure. Neuropathy may also affect people who smoke cigarettes and drink excessive alcohol. Many people get fatigued easily when neuropathy is present, which may cause muscle and bone pain. People who have neuropathy can find it difficult and painful to walk and may notice a difference in skin color. Having nutritional deficiencies could result in the development of neuropathy, including vitamins B-12, B-6, and B-9. If you are afflicted with this foot condition, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately treat and monitor neuropathy.
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 Brett Dupont, DPM from Golden Gate Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Sonoma, San Francisco, and Oakland, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
