Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It commonly affects the feet first, causing changes in feeling and sometimes strength. It is a symptom of an underlying problem, not a diagnosis by itself, so finding the cause matters.
Symptoms
- Numbness or reduced feeling
- Tingling, pins and needles
- Burning, sharp or electric-shock pain, often worse at night
- Sensitivity to touch
- Weakness, poor balance or stumbling
Common causes
- Diabetes, the most common cause
- Vitamin deficiencies, especially vitamin B12
- Thyroid, kidney or liver disease
- Excess alcohol use
- Some medications, including certain chemotherapy drugs
- Autoimmune conditions, infections and inherited conditions
- In some people, no cause is found
Not every case is neuropathy
Similar symptoms can come from a nerve that is pinched in one spot, such as Morton's neuroma or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Where the symptoms are and how they behave help tell the two apart. See nerve pain.
How it is evaluated
Evaluation includes your history, an examination of feeling, reflexes and strength, and often blood tests for diabetes, vitamin levels and thyroid function. Nerve testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
- Treating the underlying cause, such as improving blood sugar control or correcting a deficiency
- Prescription medicines and topical treatments for nerve pain, chosen with your doctor
- Protective footwear and orthotics
- Exercise and balance training to reduce fall risk
Protecting your feet
When feeling is reduced, injuries can go unnoticed. Check your feet daily, never walk barefoot, wear well-fitting shoes, and see a doctor for any sore, blister or color change. People with neuropathy are at risk for wounds and, in some cases, Charcot foot. Learn more about diabetic foot management.
Dr. Ajdari sees patients in Metairie on the Southshore and in Slidell on the Northshore, serving the Greater New Orleans area. Request an appointment or call 985-326-8614.
This page is for general education and is not a substitute for an examination and advice from a qualified clinician. Treatment recommendations depend on your individual situation. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911.