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Neuropathy-Well-Heeled-Podiatry

Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when there is damage to the nerves to the peripheries (hands,  toe etc). This results in the loss of feeling and temperature sensation to the effected area.

The reason for numbness in the feet in people with diabetes is still largely unknown. It is believed to be associated with high blood sugar levels and unstable diabetes affecting the nerve sheath fibers and message impulses. The longer you have had diabetes the greater risk of peripheral neuropathy.

 

Risk Factors of Peripheral Neuropathy (Numbness in the Feet):

  • Foot ulcerations and burns – due to being unable to detect trauma/injury to feet.

  • Infections– if unaware trauma has occurs and wound left untreated.

  • Increased risk of falls – due to changes in leg muscles, proprioception and foot structure, altering the walking style.

Assessment for Peripheral Neuropathy (Numbness in the Feet):

An annual diabetes assessment by a podiatrist is essential in determining any sensation loss and the risks of undetected foot injury.

The podiatrist will use specific instruments to assess the protective sensation and balance in your feet.

Peripheral Neuropathy Snapshot

  • Altered sensations experienced in the feet
  • Common in people with diabetes
  • Can affect quality of life
  • Treatment will vary depending on the cause of neuropathy

Causes

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

  • Medical conditions – diabetes, alcoholism, Spina Bifida

  • Hereditary conditions – Charcot Marie Tooth, Lupus

  • Metabolic conditions – thyroid dysfunction, kidney and liver failure

  • Infections – HIV, Syphilis, Leprosy, Gullain-Barre, Lyme Borreliosis

  • Malnutrition – vitamin B12, B6, niacin and folate deficiency

  • Physical conditions – trauma or injury to nerves, Sciatica

  • Drugs and medication – cytotoxic drugs (chemotherapy)

  • Exposure to toxins or heavy metal contamination – lead or mercury

  • Malignancies

Symptoms

Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms

  • Numbness and tingling in the feet.

  • Sharp shooting pain.

  • Feeling of swollen feet.

  • Sensation of wearing socks or stockings when not.

  • Burning or freezing sensation.

  • Dry skin and lack of sweating.

  • Bounding foot pulses, yet cold toes.

  • Muscle weakness in legs.

  • Loss of normal sensation (unable to detect trauma).

  • Hyper-sensitivity to touch (painful).

  • Symptoms are often more severe at night.

Treatment

Treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy

There is no official treatment for peripheral neuropathy, as the nerve damage is irreversible. However there are several ways to manage the symptoms including:

Home Therapies:

  • Good blood sugar level control.

  • Reduce consumption of caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol – these often increase symptoms.

  • Undertake regular, moderate exercise.

  • Massage feet gently to improve circulation.

  • Apply cool tap water for 10-15 minutes or cooling gel before going to bed.

Medications:

May be prescribe to improve symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. A discussion with your GP is advisable as these medications often have unwanted side effects.

Alternative Therapies:

  • Topical capsaicin cream (0.075%) – applied to affected area 3-4 times/day. Symptoms may get worse initially before getting better.

  • Mechanical tapping – may be applied by podiatrist.

  • Socks – wear 2 pairs of well fitted socks to bed. Ensure there is no elastic at top of sock, which could reduce circulation.

  • Compressive stockings (high percentage Lycra) – only if blood flow has been assessed by medical practitioner or podiatrist.

Some patients may experience painful peripheral neuropathy (PPN), as a result of their diabetes or other factors mentioned above.

It is important to speak to your podiatrist at Well Heeled Podiatry about the treatment modalities that are available.

 

WARNING: This information is  a guide only and does not replace professional podiatry advice. The content by Well Heeled Podiatry is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the need for a consultation with a podiatrist, to accurately diagnose and treat your foot condition. Treatment and outcomes will vary between patients depending on the nature of the presenting complaint and subsequent diagnosis of condition.

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