What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy refers to a condition that results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which are any that are outside the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord). Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy. The symptoms depend on which nerves are damaged, but typically affect the hands, legs, and feet. Some common symptoms of Neuropathy include:
Numbness or tingling: People with peripheral neuropathy often experience a tingling sensation, similar to pins and needles, or numbness in affected areas, including the feet.
Muscle weakness: Those who suffer from neuropathy can sometimes experience muscle weakness in the feet, which can make walking difficult.
Pain or sensitivity: It is not uncommon to experience stabbing, burning, or shooting pain in affected areas, when dealing with peripheral neuropathy, as well as increased sensitivity to touch and/or temperature.
Loss of balance: Peripheral neuropathy sufferers can experience a loss of coordination and balance, which can lead to falls and injuries.
Neuropathy Treatment
The best treatment for neuropathy depends on the cause, and which nerves have been affected. If you have diabetes, the first step is to ensure this is well controlled and find effective treatment and foot care for diabetes that work for you, which will help prevent the neuropathy from getting any worse.
Some common treatments for neuropathy that sufferers often find helpful, again depending on the symptoms experienced, include medicines, pain relief, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Treatment for Neuropathy in Feet
When it comes to treating neuropathy in the feet, the most important thing is improving your every day comfort with supportive shoe insoles for neuropathy. You can also try soaking your feet in warm water, massaging your feet, and using compression socks to relieve pain. See some of our recommended products for people with diabetic neuropathy below…