Alcohol and Your Feet
An occasional glass of wine, a beer, or a cocktail isn’t bad for you; in fact, some studies have shown that light to moderate alcohol consumption can protect you against certain kinds of cancers and other illnesses. Excess alcohol consumption, however, can be dangerous. Alcohol dependency has been linked to physical symptoms, including liver disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. These symptoms, compounded by people with drinking problems, are more likely than others to be malnourished, putting them at increased risk for diabetes. Binge drinking is also a contributing factor in blacking out and poor decision-making, and risky behaviors such as unprotected sex and driving while intoxicated.
Alcoholism is also a danger to your feet. Men and women who drink heavily are at risk of alcoholic neuropathy, nerve damage caused by chronic alcohol abuse. Signs of this condition are numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the feet. Alcoholic neuropathy can also affect the hands. If untreated, the symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy can become permanent, and the damage can affect not only nerves but also the brain itself.
Middlesex County podiatrists Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are experts in diagnosing and treating all manner of injuries to and illnesses of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. In addition, their experience offers help from alcoholic neuropathy as part of an overall medical detoxification and recovery plan. They can provide medication to alleviate pain and swelling and provide other treatment modalities to help you as you return to a state of sobriety and wellness.
Do you suspect that you might be suffering from alcoholic neuropathy, or do you have another concern about the health of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? A visit with an expert podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene DPM is the first step on the path to wellness. Schedule a visit to the modern, comfortable Advanced Feet and Ankle Care offices in Old Bridge and Sayreville. Call our friendly staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to get started today.