Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage in areas away from the central body, such a the feet. It encompasses three nerve types consisting of sensory nerves for touch, taste, sight, hearing, and smell. Motor nerves are for movement, and autonomic nerves are used for functions such as balance, sweating, and digestion. Sensory nerves in the feet and legs are usually impacted. Symptoms can encompass pain, tingling, and numbness. Additional symptoms can include having a pins and needles sensation, a burning feeling, and muscle weakness. These symptoms can be mild or severe, and typically start in the toes and progress toward the knees, often worsening at night. The primary cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, including both type 1 and type 2, and is also known as diabetic neuropathy. Other contributors can include prolonged heavy alcohol use, and nerve damage from injuries or repetitive actions. Additionally, infections such as Lyme disease, HIV, autoimmune disorders, and hereditary conditions may lead to developing peripheral neuropathy. If you have peripheral neuropathy and it is causing unusual sensations in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and treatment plan to manage symptoms.

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 Milos Tomich, DPM from Dr. Tomich Foot & Ankle Health Center. 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 one of our offices located in Milwaukee and Wauwatosa, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.