What causes neuropathy?
You have nerves all over your body that communicate with your brain and spinal cord — your central nervous system. If any of these nerves are pinched or damaged, proper signals stop and you may experience pain and numbness, among other symptoms.
One of the top causes of neuropathy is diabetes. The blood sugar surges you experience damage and destroy nerves over time. This type of neuropathy is known as diabetic neuropathy. Other times, neuropathy is associated with:
- Autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus
- Serious viral or bacterial infections, including Lyme disease
- Genetic disorders, like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
- Bone marrow issues
- Kidney disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Alcoholism
Your prescription or over-the-counter medications may be to blame, too, which is why it’s important to let your podiatrist know about every drug you take, even supplements.
What are the symptoms of neuropathy?
The symptoms you experience with neuropathy depend on which nerve (or nerves) is affected and how damaged it may be. Ohio Foot and Ankle Center podiatrists can help you if you experience any of the following issues:
- Sensitivity to touch or pressure, possibly from socks
- Poor coordination or difficulty walking
- Burning, sharp, or throbbing pain
- Shooting electrical sensations
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
Your podiatrist may order X-ray images, lab tests, or nerve function tests during your physical exam to diagnose your neuropathy and help you find an effective solution.
How does a podiatrist treat neuropathy?
The leading podiatrists at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center combine neuropathy treatments to provide fast-acting relief, in addition to long-term relief. Treating neuropathy effectively usually includes several of the solutions below:
- Specialized wound dressings
- Topical numbing ointments
- Antidepressant or anti-seizure drugs
- Custom orthotics (to off-load pressure)
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
It’s not common, but sometimes surgery is necessary to treat neuropathy. This is generally only an option if you have nerve compression that requires a manual correction.
If neuropathy is lowering your quality of life, the caring team at Ohio Foot and Ankle Center can help. Book your neuropathy exam online or call the clinic nearest you directly to schedule by phone.
