Foot neuropathy, a nerve disorder, presents a variety of challenges for individuals experiencing symptoms. Neuropathy occurs when nerves in the feet are damaged, leading to sensations of numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. This condition can significantly impair mobility and diminish quality of life. Diagnosing foot neuropathy involves a comprehensive evaluation by a podiatrist, typically starting with a thorough medical history and physical examination. This foot doctor may perform various tests to assess nerve function and rule out other potential causes of foot symptoms, such as diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Electromyography, or EMG, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests, such as MRI scans or ultrasounds, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of nerve damage. Early detection and diagnosis of foot neuropathy are essential for initiating appropriate treatment strategies aimed at managing symptoms, preventing further nerve damage, and improving overall foot health and function. If you have any of the above symptoms in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 one of our podiatrists from Redwood Podiatry Group. 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 Eureka and Arcata, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
