Talking to Your Foot Doctor About Peripheral Neuropathy

Your foot doctor can determine the right way to treat your peripheral neuropathy, but it is very important that you understand the condition as much as possible. That way, you will have a good idea of why this problem needs to be treated and what to expect from that treatment.

Symptoms

Peripheral neuropathy develops due to damage to nerves in the hands, feet, legs or arms. This could happen because of some sort of neurological issue or due to a physical trauma of some kind. It can also occur because of diabetes or alcoholism.

When you talk to your foot doctor about this problem, he or she will want to know what types of symptoms you are experiencing. The symptoms are typically mild at first, such as tingling or numbness. As the condition worsens, tingling, numbness and even burning may be much more noticeable. You may also have heightened sensitivity to touch in the affected area – even a slight touch could be painful. In some instances it can even be difficult to breathe or control your bladder or bowels.

How a Foot Doctor Treats Peripheral Neuropathy

Your foot doctor will need to find out the underlying cause of your condition before he or she can treat it properly. Once the cause is identified, your doctor will likely be able to reduce your symptoms substantially. It may even be possible to eliminate symptoms entirely. Medications such as pain relievers and even anti-seizure drugs are often effective, as are certain types of skin creams. Physical therapy could also help by reducing pressure on the affected nerves.

If you are suffering from peripheral neuropathy or any other type of problem affecting your foot or ankle, speak to a foot doctor with Southwest Foot & Ankle Centers. Contact us online or call 972-805-9985 (Plano), 972-318-2738 (Lewisville) to schedule an appointment.