Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy: A Clinical Guide for Our Patients
- Aug 13, 2024
- 3 min read
At our pedorthic and footcare clinic, we prioritize your mobility and safety. One of the most significant conditions we manage is peripheral neuropathy. While the name sounds complex, understanding how it affects your feet is the first step in preventing serious injury.
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Your nervous system is like a vast network of electrical wires. These nerves carry signals from your brain to your feet (to tell them to move) and from your feet back to your brain (to tell you if something is hot, cold, or sharp).
Neuropathy occurs when these "wires" become damaged. When the nerves are damaged, the signals become distorted or cut off entirely. This is very common in patients with diabetes, as high blood sugar can physically damage the nerve fibers over time.
Causes and Symptoms
Neuropathy can develop due to several factors, including:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves over time, leading to diabetic neuropathy.
Infections and Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like shingles, Lyme disease, and lupus can contribute to nerve damage.
Injury or Trauma: Physical injury to the nerves from accidents or surgery can result in neuropathy.
Genetics: Hereditary neuropathy can be passed down through families.
Nerve damage doesn't always feel like "nothing." In fact, it often causes unusual sensations before the foot goes numb. You might experience:
Paraesthesia: A "pins and needles" sensation.
Burning or Shooting Pain: Often feeling worse at night.
Numbness: A loss of protective sensation, meaning you can no longer feel pain or temperature changes.
Treatment Options
We offer a range of treatment options to address neuropathy symptoms and improve your overall health, including:
Medication: Pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants can help manage pain and discomfort.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve muscle strength and coordination.
Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations on nutrition, exercise, and avoiding alcohol and smoking to prevent further nerve damage.
Complementary Therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture or massage therapy to reduce pain and promote relaxation.
Why Neuropathy is a Risk to Your Feet
The biggest danger of neuropathy is insensitivity. If you cannot feel a small pebble in your shoe or a blister forming on your toe, you will continue to walk on it. This constant pressure can turn a minor irritation into a serious wound or ulcer very quickly.
How Our the HealthWalks Pedorthic Team Protects You
Our goal is to provide the "feeling" that your nerves no longer can. We use specialized tools and clinical expertise to keep your feet out of harm's way.
We design custom orthotic therapy to redistribute your weight, ensuring no single area of your foot takes too much pressure. We also provide professional footwear fitting to ensure your shoes have a wide "toe box" and no internal seams that could rub against your skin. Additionally, our staff includes a professional footcare nurse who can safely trim nails and manage calluses that are difficult for you to see or reach.
Your Daily Routine
Because you may not be able to rely on pain to warn you of a problem, you must rely on your vision. We recommend a daily foot inspection:
Check the tops and bottoms of both feet for redness, swelling, or cuts.
Use a mirror or ask a loved one for help if you cannot see the soles of your feet.
Feel inside your shoes with your hand before putting them on to ensure there are no torn linings or foreign objects.
Personalized Care
At HealthWalks, we understand that every patient is unique. Our team will work closely with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and lifestyle. We focus on providing effective, non-invasive treatments whenever possible, so you receive the best care and support.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, don't wait to seek treatment. Early intervention can prevent further nerve damage and improve your quality of life.
Don't let neuropathy hold you back. We now offer online appointments! Book with HealthWalks today and start your journey to healthier, happier living.
Blog Disclaimer: HealthWalks Inc. blogs are provided for general information and educational purposes. They are not intended to be or a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified health provider for medical guidance.
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