Neuropathy

Burning, tingling, and numbness are signature symptoms of neuropathy. It’s highly treatable when caught early, so turn to Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. in Park City and Chicago, Illinois, for compassionate and comprehensive care. Don’t let neuropathy keep you on the sidelines of life. Call now to meet with a skilled podiatrist or book an appointment online.

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy is nerve damage that causes pins-and-needles pain, tingling, and numbness throughout your body, but especially in your feet. If you have diabetes, your risk is higher, but neuropathy can result from injury or infections, but your risk is significantly higher if you have diabetes.

Telltale signs of neuropathy are that your feet:

• Feel like they’re burning
• Are frequently numb or cold
• Have sores or injuries, and you don’t know how they happened

Over time, numbness and tingling in your feet make walking difficult, putting you at risk for trips, falls, and injuries.

What causes neuropathy?

Diabetes is the primary cause of neuropathy, but several other conditions, like autoimmune diseases, trauma, infections, and exposure to environmental toxins, can also lead to nerve damage.

Certain medications or vitamin deficiencies are also linked to neuropathy. Before you seek treatment, work with your doctor to determine the root cause to optimize your treatment results.

How can I protect my feet when I have neuropathy?

Start by checking your feet daily for cuts, scrapes, blisters, or ulcers, which are best treated when caught early. When you step from the shower or bath, make sure to dry your feet completely. 

Wear shoes that fit well and have a roomy toe box. Before standing up to walk, do some gentle plantar flexion stretches to warm your feet up for movement. 

Most importantly, work with your doctor to control your blood sugar levels so neuropathy doesn’t worsen.

How is neuropathy treated?

Your personalized treatment at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. depends on what’s causing the problem. The team aims to alleviate your symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Your podiatrist might recommend:

• Medications to manage nerve pain
• Physical therapy to improve balance, strength, and mobility
• Orthotics to protect your feet
• Nutritional supplements, especially if you have a deficiency like B12
• Blood sugar assessment and stabilization

The earlier you treat neuropathy, the more you can preserve your mobility and comfort, so don’t wait to meet with your podiatrist at Podiatry & Sports Medicine Associates P.C. You can call now to schedule an appointment or simply click online at your convenience.