Neuropathy of the foot, also known as peripheral neuropathy (PN), is a condition that affects the nerves in the lower leg that affect the foot and provide sensation and movement of the foot. When the nerves are damaged, they do not function properly.
The peripheral nervous system sends information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. There are three types of peripheral nerves: motor, sensory and autonomic. Some neuropathies affect all three types of nerves, while others involve only one or two. Most people, however, suffer from polyneuropathy, which means that many nerves are affected at the same time.
Causes of neuropathy include direct damage (e.g., laceration or compression of the nerve), medical and genetic conditions (e.g., diabetes), inflammatory diseases, infections, and metabolic disorders.
Foot neuropathy symptoms include:
The symptoms of foot neuropathy can be either periodic or constant but are usually felt equally in both feet. Some types of peripheral neuropathy develop suddenly, while others progress more slowly over many years.
Pain from neuropathy can greatly affect your daily activities and quality of life. Symptoms of neuropathy can range from mild to severe. Each survivor's experience will be different. However, with appropriate treatment, the effects of neuropathy can be limited.
If you have peripheral neuropathy, it is important to inspect your feet regularly. Because decreased sensation may develop eventually, you might not notice an injury or infection. Someone who has diabetes and peripheral neuropathy with loss of protective sensation, for instance, could step on a tack without noticing it. Regularly inspect your feet so you can note any injuries or infections and seek appropriate medical attention as needed.
If you're unable to properly inspect your own feet, enlist a family member or friend to help you, or use a mirror. It's essential that any injuries are caught and treated promptly. Otherwise, an infection can develop and progress.
People with peripheral neuropathy should wear properly fitted shoes and avoid walking barefoot to prevent injury. If you have diabetes, it's important to control your blood sugar as well, because out-of-control blood sugar leads to increased nerve damage. Take your insulin or medication as prescribed and follow the recommended diet.
Everyone with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy of the feet should see a podiatrist. Podiatrists are doctors who are specially trained to preserve the health of the feet. The Remy Laser offered at this office is a treatment option for pain relief.
It’s finally time to relieve your chronic pain. Laser therapy may be the answer to a healthier you. Unlike many other treatments that mask pain or only address your symptoms, laser therapy treats the underlying condition to promote healing.
Book your appointment today with Dr. Fishman at (305) 834-4103.
