Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO
Do your feet frequently feel numb, tingly, hot, or painful? These sensations can be associated with peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects the nerves responsible for sending signals between the body and the brain. The feet and lower legs are often affected first, and symptoms can become more disruptive as nerve damage progresses.
Without proper attention, reduced sensation can make it easier to overlook injuries and may contribute to balance problems and other foot complications. At McVay Foot & Ankle, we offer personalized care to help patients manage neuropathy symptoms and maintain healthy, functional feet.
Call (719) 266-5000 to schedule a neuropathy evaluation in Colorado Springs.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction involving the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These nerves play an important role in detecting sensations such as temperature, pressure, and pain while also helping control movement.
The feet are particularly susceptible because the nerves traveling to the lower extremities are long and can be affected by various underlying conditions. As nerve function changes, you may notice unusual sensations, decreased feeling, or pain in your feet and toes.
Common Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy
Neuropathy symptoms can vary and may develop gradually. Some of the most common include:
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- Burning or warmth in the feet
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
- Numbness in the toes or feet
- Sharp, shooting, or stabbing pain
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Weakness in the feet or lower legs
- Changes in balance or coordination
- Symptoms that become more noticeable at night
If you experience ongoing foot pain, burning sensations at night, or numbness in your feet or toes, it’s important to have these symptoms evaluated.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
There is not one single cause of peripheral neuropathy. A number of medical conditions, injuries, and lifestyle factors can affect nerve health.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a major cause of peripheral nerve damage. Over time, elevated blood glucose can affect the nerves and lead to diabetic neuropathy, which frequently involves the feet.
Vitamin Deficiencies
The nervous system relies on certain vitamins and nutrients to function properly. Deficiencies, particularly involving vitamin B12 or folate, can interfere with healthy nerve function.
Poor Circulation
Adequate blood flow is important for maintaining healthy tissues and nerves. Circulation problems affecting the legs and feet may contribute to nerve-related problems.
Injuries or Nerve Compression
Trauma involving the back, ankle, or foot can affect individual nerves. Pressure or compression around a nerve may also produce symptoms such as pain, tingling, or numbness.
Autoimmune Disorders
Some autoimmune diseases can affect the nervous system or contribute to nerve damage. Examples include lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
Alcohol Use or Toxin Exposure
Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can affect nerve health. Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals may also contribute to peripheral nerve damage.
Why Peripheral Neuropathy Should Be Taken Seriously
When sensation decreases, you may not notice a cut, blister, burn, or other injury to your foot. A minor problem can then go untreated and potentially develop into an infection or ulcer.
Neuropathy can also interfere with your ability to feel the ground beneath your feet. This may affect stability and increase the likelihood of falls. Addressing symptoms early can help protect your feet and reduce the risk of complications.
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment in Colorado Springs, CO
The right treatment approach will vary depending on what is causing your neuropathy and the symptoms you have. The goal is to manage discomfort, address contributing factors, and help protect your feet.
Managing the Underlying Condition
When diabetes contributes to neuropathy, keeping blood glucose under control is an important part of managing nerve health. Correcting nutritional deficiencies or addressing other contributing conditions may also be necessary.
Pain Management
Certain medications and other therapies may be used to help control nerve-related discomfort. Your treatment will be based on your symptoms and individual needs.
MLS Laser Therapy
McVay Foot & Ankle offers MLS laser therapy as a non-invasive option for managing pain and supporting tissue recovery. It may be incorporated into your personalized neuropathy treatment plan.
Custom Orthotics and Protective Footwear
Custom orthotics and appropriate footwear can help cushion sensitive areas, distribute pressure more evenly, and provide additional support when walking.
Physical Therapy and Balance Training
Exercises focused on strength, mobility, and balance may help improve stability and make everyday movement easier for patients whose neuropathy affects their coordination.
Nerve Stimulation
TENS therapy uses mild electrical stimulation to influence pain signals. For some patients, it may be included as part of a broader plan for managing neuropathy discomfort.
When Should You See a Doctor for Neuropathy Symptoms?
Make an appointment if burning, tingling, or numbness continues or begins interfering with your daily activities. You should also seek evaluation if you notice changes in your balance, have difficulty walking, or develop an injury that you cannot feel.
Early evaluation can help uncover potential causes and provide an opportunity to manage symptoms before complications occur.
Why Choose McVay Foot & Ankle for Neuropathy Treatment?
McVay Foot & Ankle provides individualized care for people experiencing peripheral neuropathy and nerve-related symptoms in their feet. Our podiatric team takes your symptoms and individual needs into consideration when developing a treatment plan.
Available treatment options include MLS laser therapy, custom orthotics, and nerve stimulation when appropriate. We serve patients in Colorado Springs and surrounding communities with a focus on helping them manage symptoms and protect their foot health.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peripheral Neuropathy
Can peripheral neuropathy be reversed?
In some situations, treating the condition contributing to neuropathy may improve symptoms. The outlook varies based on the underlying cause and the extent of nerve involvement.
Why do my feet burn at night?
A burning sensation that becomes more noticeable at night can occur with peripheral nerve problems. If the sensation persists, an evaluation can help determine what may be causing it.
Does neuropathy always mean diabetes?
No. Diabetes is a common cause, but neuropathy can also be associated with nutritional deficiencies, injuries, autoimmune conditions, alcohol use, toxin exposure, and other health conditions.
Can neuropathy affect balance?
It can. Reduced sensation in the feet may make it harder to recognize changes in the ground beneath you, which can affect stability and coordination.
Find Relief from Nerve Pain in Your Feet
Ongoing burning, tingling, or numbness can affect your comfort and mobility. If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, getting evaluated can help identify potential causes and determine appropriate care.
McVay Foot & Ankle provides peripheral neuropathy treatment in Colorado Springs, CO, tailored to your individual needs.
Call (719) 266-5000 to schedule your appointment today.
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