Peripheral neuropathy involves damage or destruction of nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. They transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Damage can be caused by diabetes, infections, toxins, or trauma. Sensory neuropathy affects the ability to feel pain, temperature, and touch. Motor neuropathy impacts muscle control and movement. Autonomic neuropathy affects involuntary functions, such as sweating and blood flow regulation. Risk factors include long-standing diabetes, excessive alcohol use, and certain medical conditions. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, burning pain, and muscle weakness in the feet, often leading to balance problems and injury risk. A podiatrist can assess nerve function, identify complications, and provide treatment to protect the feet from injury. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

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 Kristina Robertson, DPM from Nola Sole 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 our office located in New Orleans, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.