Neuropathy, or nerve damage, is a common complication of diabetes, although it can also result from other conditions like alcohol abuse or certain medications. It often affects the feet and legs, causing a range of symptoms. People with neuropathy may feel a tingling, burning, or numb sensation, which can make walking or standing uncomfortable. In more severe cases, the pain may be sharp or stabbing, and the feet may look red, swollen, or develop sores. The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is high blood sugar, which damages the nerves over time. Managing blood sugar levels is key to slowing progression. Certain medications may be prescribed to relieve pain and discomfort. A podiatrist plays an important role in managing neuropathy by regularly monitoring foot health, checking for wounds, and providing pain relief strategies. They can offer custom orthotics, recommend specialized footwear, and help with wound care if neuropathy has caused skin damage. If you have neuropathy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist fo relief 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 William Street 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 William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
