Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves that send information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body become damaged. Peripheral neuropathy has a variety of different causes. It may develop due to genetics, an injury to the nerves, or because of another disorder. One common cause of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, which often leads to nerve damage in the lower limbs. Other conditions associated with peripheral neuropathy can include kidney disease, hormone imbalances, infections such as Lyme disease and HIV, and exposure to certain medicines and toxins. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may include muscle weakness, cramps, numbness, and tingling. If you are experiencing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in your lower limbs, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Kevin F. Gallagher from Gallagher Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in McMurray and Hickory, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
