Neuropathy

Neuropathy happens when nerve damage disrupts communication between the brain and feet. This miscommunication can alter the sensations that your feet experience and cause uncomfortable or odd symptoms. Common signs include tingling like pins-and-needles, numbness, difficulty feeling temperature changes, sharp or stabbing pains that arise suddenly, burning sensations (especially at night), sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness that affects coordination or balance, and loss of reflexes in the ankles or feet. Symptoms may begin gradually and spread up the feet. Some people notice symptoms mainly at night, while others have discomfort throughout their day. If you are struggling with neuropathy and its related symptoms, we advise getting treatment as soon as possible.

There are many underlying conditions that can damage the nerves of the feet. Those who are at risk of foot neuropathy are those with liver or kidney diseases, autoimmune conditions, infections such as shingles or Lyme disease, thyroid issues, or vitamin deficiencies. Medications, consumption of alcohol, and toxin exposure can also cause nerve damage in the feet. When meeting with our neuropathy doctor, please let them know if you have a family history of neuropathy, which may increase your chances of developing this condition in the feet. We recommend having our doctor examine your feet and discuss your symptoms so that a proper diagnosis and treatment plan is created for you.