What are the causes of neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a term used to describe damage to nerves, which can lead to a wide variety of issues, from muscle weakness to pins and needles sensations. You can develop neuropathy due to:

• Autoimmune diseases

• Inherited disorders

• Exposure to toxins

• Metabolic issues (Diabetes)

• Trauma or injuries

• Tumors or growths

One of the most common causes of neuropathy is blood sugar fluctuations from diabetes. Medical experts report that more than half of diabetic patients develop neuropathy at some point in life.

Does neuropathy cause pain?

It certainly can, but it just depends on your specific neuropathy diagnosis. Initially, peripheral neuropathy — meaning neuropathy in your arms and legs — begins with a gradual onset of prickling, tingling, and even numbness, which can start all the way down in your feet and toes.

As neuropathy progresses, you may experience:

• Burning sensations

• Muscle weakness

• Poor balance

• Extreme sensitivity to pressure or touch

Diabetic neuropathy is of particular concern because the numbness you experience can make it difficult for you to feel wounds. Since wound healing is already delayed when you have diabetes, a simple cut can quickly become infected if you can’t feel it and don’t know it’s there.

How is neuropathy treated?

Whether you’re just starting to experience neuropathy symptoms or have been battling with neuropathy for an extended period, you have plenty of options for treatment at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center. Your customized neuropathy treatment plan may include:

• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

• Certain anti-seizure or antidepressant medications

• Topical numbing creams

• Injections

• Physical therapy

• Surgery (This is the latest data-driven treatment for some patients)

If you have diabetes, your neuropathy treatment plan may also include careful evaluation and monitoring of your blood sugar. Your team at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center can partner with your primary care physician to help you more efficiently manage your diabetes.

As a last resort, if these conservative therapies aren’t effective, you might need surgery. This specialized type of surgery often involves releasing pressure on the nerve(s) by carefully cutting into surrounding tissues to take the pressure off. Dr. Bregman is the only podiatrist in Nevada who has had specialized certification in this area. Rest assured, no matter which type of treatment is right for you, the team at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center helps you find effective neuropathy relief.

Get relief from neuropathy discomfort by scheduling your exam at Bregman Foot-Ankle & Nerve Center right away. Book your visit online or over the phone.