Patients who have a type of neuropathy that is referred to as peripheral neuropathy may often notice a numbing or tingling sensation in their toes. As this condition worsens, there may be a burning pain that is felt, and this may be more noticeable at night. Additional symptoms may include weakened muscles or cramping, and balance and coordination may be affected. Research has shown there are three types of nerve groups, which may be distressed. Impulses that are sent from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles in the body are known as motor nerves. If damage to this group of nerves occurs, the result may be difficulty in walking. The function of the sensory nerves is to help people determine if an object is hot or cold, or rough or smooth. Tingling and numbness may happen if these nerves are affected by neuropathy. Additionally, the heart rate and blood pressure are controlled by autonomic nerves, and a patient who is afflicted with this type of neuropathy may experience dizziness or may have difficulty in swallowing. If you have any of these symptoms, please consult with a podiatrist who can guide you toward beginning the proper treatment.

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 Carolina Foot & Ankle. 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 Huntersville Office | 16419 Northcross Dr Suite A, Huntersville, NC 28078; Mooresvillle Office | 206 Joe Knox Avenue Suite D, Mooresville, NC 28117; and Mountain Island | 10310 Couloak Drive Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28216 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.