Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve condition that can manifest itself as a burning, tingling, prickling sensation in the feet and/or legs and arms. It may start as a mild tingling in the toes and progress to searing pain. It can spread upward in the body, up to the thighs. Numbness in toes and/or foot is common and symptoms may be more troublesome at night. Of particular concern is when the neuropathy progresses to a lack of feeling in the feet. This creates a loss of balance and coordination while walking and makes foot injury from debris in the shoe less likely to be noticed until it is too late to stop an infection.
There are over 100 known causes of peripheral neuropathy but many times tests cannot pinpoint a specific condition causing it. Treating the medical condition reduces symptoms but there needs to be concurrent attention to stabilizing gait and foot motion.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Burning feet
- Numb toes
- Numb feet
Symptoms:
- Tingling, prickling or numbness
- Burning or freezing pain
- Extreme sensitivity to touch
- Loss of balance or coordination
Signs to look for:
- Medical conditions associated with peripheral neuropathy
- Evidence of balance problems or difficulty walking
- Evidence of muscle weakness
- Evidence of diminished sensation
Possible Causes:
- Diabetes
- Kidney or liver disease
- Underactive thyroid
- Infections
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Raynauds Syndrome
- HIV positive
Goals:
- Treat the medical condition
- Stimulate circulation in the foot
- Create or restore optimal foot motion and gait
- Restore balance
- Footwear that protects feet
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
- Plastazote cushion in shoe if diabetic or if more cushioning is needed
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Copper, bamboo or silver socks that wick moisture away from the skin and prevent infection
- Compression hosiery products
Activities:
- Regular exercise program with attention to aerobics and lower body strength
- Regular stretching of gastrocnemius, soleus muscles, and Achilles tendon
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: Neuropathy-Trust.org, J. Vonhof, Fixing Your Feet