Causes of Neuropathy in the Feet

The most common type of neuropathy in the feet is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. The brain receives signals from the peripheral nerves and if this ceases to occur, these nerves may be damaged. This condition is frequently observed in diabetics and in patients who have circulation disorders. Additional causes of this ailment may include poor eating habits, alcoholism, and possibly toxic chemical exposure. Symptoms of neuropathy in the feet may include a burning and tingling sensation in the toes and the feet may gradually become numb. Walking may become affected in addition to experiencing difficulty in performing daily activities. A podiatrist can provide a proper diagnosis as well as determining the severity of this condition.

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if left unchecked. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists of The Foot and Ankle Associates of North Carolina, PLLC. 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 trigged 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, whether it be diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, or others, will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment. 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 Ahoskie, Durham, Raleigh, and Rocky Mount, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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