Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a medical condition caused by damaged nerve cells and is often associated with autoimmune diseases, infections, diabetes, tumors, or hereditary conditions. Peripheral neuropathy currently affects over 20 million people in the United States, with symptoms ranging from tingling or burning pain and nausea to muscle spasms, difficulty moving the arms or legs, and muscle atrophy. At Cella Foot & Ankle Specialty, Dr. Cella helps patients throughout Fair Lawn, NJ manage neuropathy of the foot and ankle, relieve symptoms, and protect against complications.
Understanding Neuropathy of the Foot and Ankle
While neuropathy can be severe, its most common forms, including diabetic neuropathy, carpal tunnel syndrome, and sciatica, are quite prevalent in adult populations. The symptoms depend greatly on which nerves are damaged, whether autonomic, motor, or sensory. In the feet, reduced sensation is especially important because it can allow minor injuries to go unnoticed and progress into serious wounds, which is why neuropathy is a central concern in diabetic foot care. Dr. Cella evaluates the type and cause of your neuropathy and coordinates care with a neurologist when the condition extends beyond the foot and ankle. Protective footwear such as diabetic shoes and inserts and ongoing wound care often play an important role in preventing complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do podiatrists treat neuropathy?
Podiatrists treat neuropathy of the foot and ankle and refer to a neurologist when the neuropathy involves other parts of the body. Working together as a team, the podiatrist and neurologist manage the condition for the patient.
How does a podiatrist treat nerve damage in the feet?
Your podiatrist can offer oral or topical medications to reduce neuropathy symptoms, as well as home therapy programs to improve balance. TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) can help by using electrical stimulation to interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain, and orthotics can reduce excess movement that leads to blistering. In more severe cases, surgery may be indicated to release compressed nerves.
Can neuropathy in the feet be reversed?
In the early stages of nerve damage, neuropathy can sometimes be reversed. Exercise, controlling your blood sugar, quitting smoking, and using topical and oral medications can all help improve symptoms and support nerve health.
What does nerve damage in the feet feel like?
Patients most often describe tingling, pins and needles, weakness, fatigue, a sharp stabbing sensation, burning, and throbbing. These sensations can come and go or be constant, depending on the underlying cause.
How long does nerve damage in the feet take to heal?
When a nerve is bruised or compressed, it can take roughly six to twelve weeks to heal and recover. A nerve that has been cut has the potential to recover as well, growing at a rate of about one millimeter per day.
Can you stop the progression of neuropathy?
Slowing or stopping the progression of neuropathy depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the nerve damage. In many cases, lifestyle changes can be successful, and it is important to work with your doctor on a management plan that may also include medications and vitamin supplements.
What is the difference between neuropathy and peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves that affect the extremities, including the feet, legs, hands, and arms. Neuropathy is a broader term for nerve damage that can occur anywhere in the body.
What causes neuropathy to flare up?
Several triggers can worsen neuropathy, including diabetes, alcohol, a poor diet, infections, exposure to certain chemicals, and some medications. Identifying and managing these triggers is an important part of keeping symptoms under control.