Hereditary sensory neuropathy is a condition characterized by nerve abnormalities in the legs and feet. An individual with this condition might feel paresthesia, a prickling or tingling sensation, in their lower limbs. Other common symptoms include feeling numbness and reduced sensitivity to pain, heat, and cold in the legs and feet. Sometimes people who are affected do not lose sensation but instead feel shooting pains in their legs and feet. People who develop this condition may be at an increased risk of foot ulcers due to the decrease in sensation in their feet. These ulcers can become infected and cause serious complications if they go unnoticed and untreated. If you have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy it is recommended that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can help you in monitoring and maintaining the health of your feet and ankles.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
