Neuropathy is a Common Foot Health Issue

It is peripheral neuropathy. This common ailment can cause various issues in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. When the nerves that connect your torso with your extremities become damaged, they don’t work as they should. Podiatrists, Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are experienced in diagnosing and treating peripheral neuropathy.

What causes peripheral neuropathy?

While anyone can develop neuropathy, the most common cause is diabetes. Up to 70 percent of people with diabetes will develop neuropathy as a side effect. Of note, while some people with diabetes visit their podiatrist to investigate symptoms that result in a neuropathy diagnosis, the opposite occurs for others. They come in for treatment of neuropathy and discover that diabetes is the underlying cause.

Other factors that contribute to neuropathy include:

• advanced age

• family history

• arthritis

• traumatic injury to the nerves

• medication, especially chemotherapy medications

• a history of alcohol or drug abuse

How can you spot peripheral neuropathy?

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in the lower body typically begin with numbness and feelings of prickling or tingling in the toes. These feelings might be constant, or they might be intermittent. Eventually, these uncomfortable sensations spread to the rest of the foot. Other symptoms of neuropathy include:

• feelings of hot or cold

• throbbing, jabbing, and/or shooting pain

• pain that worsens at night

• a feeling like you’re wearing a glove or sock that isn’t actually there

• extreme sensitivity to touch or a lack of sensitivity in the feet

• poor balance

• lack of coordination

• challenges walking or standing normally

• muscle weakness

• cramping or twitching

• difficulty sleeping because of pain or another discomfort at night

How is peripheral neuropathy treated?

A common treatment for peripheral neuropathy is an over-the-counter and prescription medication. Other treatment options include topical creams and ointments for discomfort and physical therapy. Foot and ankle surgery is occasionally the most appropriate way for an expert foot doctor to care for a patient with peripheral neuropathy but reserved as a last resort. 

Are you worried about the effects of peripheral neuropathy on your feet, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly Advanced Feet and Ankle Care staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with Middlesex County podiatrists Jason Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM, in our modern, comfortable offices in Old Bridge and Sayreville today.