Dealing with Neuropathy in Your Feet

Did you know estimates are that over 20 million Americans suffer from peripheral neuropathy? It is the form of neuropathy that affects the “peripheral” parts of your body—specifically your feet and hands. At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, neuropathy is a condition we frequently treat at our Hudson office. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can include tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in your feet. It may also manifest as shooting pains in your feet, the feeling like your sock bunches up, or there is a pebble in your shoe. It can also lead to a loss of balance. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms for the first time, it’s important you contact us for an appointment so our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can examine your feet and determine the source of your symptoms.

Causes of Neuropathy

Although neuropathy can occur at any age, it is more common in older adults. The leading cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, accounting for about 30% of all cases. Another 30% of cases are considered idiopathic, meaning their cause is unknown. There are actually over 100 known causes of neuropathy. The other causes of 60% of cases may be one of the following:

  • Genetics

  • Cancer or chemotherapy

  • Vitamin deficiency—particularly B12

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Trauma to the foot

  • Certain medications

  • Guillain-Barre Syndrome

  • Kidney failure

  • Alcohol use

  • Scleroderma

Diagnosis and Treatment

The podiatrist will examine your feet and get a complete medical history. They can perform a simple skin biopsy in the office, determining the concentration of small nerve fibers in your lower extremities. They will evaluate treatment for peripheral neuropathy by the cause and the severity of your condition. Some possibilities include:

  • Custom orthotics

  • Nutritional supplements

  • Medications or injection therapy

In some instances, if the cause of neuropathy is nerve compression, for example, surgery may be able to relieve the symptoms. Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can lead to other secondary and sometimes serious conditions like corns, calluses, burns, open wounds, and infections. Don’t delay; if you believe you have neuropathy contact us today by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799.

Neuropathy, foot healthPasco-Hernando Foot & Ankleneuropathy, peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, foot health