The feet are typically affected with the condition that is known as peripheral neuropathy. It causes the inability to feel sensations on the feet, and existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes may go unnoticed. There are various categories of specific types of nerves, consisting of sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves. Pain and touch are products of the sensory nerves, while the motor nerves control the muscles. Automatic functions of the body come from the autonomic nerves, and bladder function and blood pressure fall into this area. The symptoms that many people experience with neuropathy can include a loss of balance, weakness in the feet, in addition to a tingling or numbing sensation in the hands and feet. Diabetic patients may be prone to developing neuropathy, and infected cuts on the feet may go unnoticed, possibly leading to serious complications. If you have any symptoms that may indicate neuropathy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
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 Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. 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 one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
