If you are experiencing pain, numbness, and/or tingling in your feet due to neuropathy, it is best to see a neurologist or a Podiatrist. A neurologist is a specialist that diagnoses and treats diseases of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.
A Podiatrist specializes in treating conditions affecting the feet and ankles. Your primary care provider can refer you to one of these specialists depending on your individual needs.
Once you are at the doctor, they will do a physical examination, check lab work, and review your medical history to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the neuropathy. Further testing may include imaging scans and blood tests to check your vitamin and mineral levels.
After your visit, your doctor may suggest treatment options depending on the cause of your neuropathy. Treatments may include medications to reduce inflammation and pain, lifestyle changes, or physical therapy.
It may also be beneficial to see a professional massage therapist or chiropractor to reduce tension. If the symptoms are severe, surgery may be an option.
It is important to find an experienced physician or Podiatrist to properly diagnose and treat your condition. Visiting a healthcare provider for an evaluation can help determine the best course of action for managing and improving symptoms.
What is the doctor to treat neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves in the body, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and other symptoms. Treatment of neuropathy depends on the underlying cause. Typically, the primary treatment is medications to help manage the symptoms.
Medication may include analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen) to relieve pain, antiseizure medications, antidepressants, and topical creams. Physical therapy and regular exercise may also help to improve symptoms.
In some cases, nerve blocks, electrical nerve stimulation, and nerve-inhibiting injections may be used to reduce pain and other symptoms. Neuropathy can also be treated with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy diet and weight.
Other treatments may include vitamin B12 injections, ultrasounds, acupuncture, or a combination of these therapies. Consulting with a doctor or neurologist is essential for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause of neuropathy and managing symptoms.
Can a doctor do anything for neuropathy?
Yes, a doctor can do a number of things to help people who are suffering from neuropathy. Depending on the type of neuropathy, treatments may include medications, injections, physical therapy, nerve blocks, or changes to the diet and lifestyle.
Medications such as anticonvulsants, anti-inflammatories, and antidepressants can all help to reduce the symptoms of neuropathy. Injections such as B vitamins, phenol, and corticosteroids can be used to treat inflammation and irritation of the nerve endings.
Nerve blocks, injections of anesthetic, can be used to provide temporary relief from pain, and in some cases, nerve blocks can be used to permanently block the painful signals from the damaged nerves.
Physical therapy can also be used to treat neuropathy. Exercises such as massage, stretching, and strengthening can help to reduce pain, improve circulation, and promote muscle relaxation. In addition, occupational therapy can help to improve function, reduce fatigue, and improve the ability to perform everyday activities.
Changes to the diet and lifestyle can also be beneficial to those suffering from neuropathy. Eating a diet low in saturated fat and high in fiber can help to reduce inflammation and nourish the nerves.
Additionally, avoiding excessive alcohol use, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest can all help to improve the overall health of the nervous system.
Overall, a doctor can do a number of things to help people suffering from neuropathy. By understanding the type of neuropathy and its underlying cause, the doctor can create a treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
What is the treatment for neuropathy in legs and feet?
The treatment for neuropathy in the legs and feet depends on the underlying cause. In the majority of cases, the primary goal is to address the underlying disease, disorder, or injury to reduce neuropathy symptoms.
However, depending on the cause, this may not be possible. In these cases, treatment is aimed at managing the symptoms of neuropathy to improve quality of life.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, laser/ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, nerve block injections, nerve stimulation, orthotic shoe inserts, biofeedback, and massage therapy.
Medications that can help to relieve symptoms include topical gels and creams, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. Physical therapy can help to strengthen weakened muscles and improve coordination, balance, and the functioning of joints.
Lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol and smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, exercising regularly, and wearing supportive shoes can also help to reduce symptoms. Laser/ultrasound therapy, acupuncture, and nerve block injections can provide temporary relief of symptoms.
Nerve stimulation and orthotic shoe inserts can be used to help control pain. Massage therapy and biofeedback are also beneficial for addressing nerve pain and tightness.
In addition to medical treatment of the underlying cause, if any, the key to treating neuropathy in the legs and feet is to try various treatments to find the combination that works best for you.
When should you see a doctor for neuropathy?
It is important to seek medical attention for any symptoms that appear to be related to neuropathy, especially if the symptoms are worsening, do not improve over time, or are causing considerable pain or discomfort.
Symptoms of neuropathy can include numbness, tingling, burning, or shooting pains that may radiate down arms or legs, or even a sharp pain like an electrical shock. Other symptoms may include sensitivity to touch, decreased ability to move a muscle or joint, balance or coordination problems, an inability to feel heat or cold, and muscle weakness.
If these symptoms present, or if you are concerned that you may have a form of neuropathy, you should make an appointment with your doctor right away. It is important to get medical attention in order to accurately diagnose the condition and determine the best course of treatment.
Depending on the type of neuropathy, treatments may range from lifestyle modifications to medications or surgery.
Can anything be done for neuropathy in the feet?
Yes, there are several treatments available for neuropathy in the feet that may improve symptoms, reduce pain, and increase function. Depending on the cause and severity of neuropathy, the treatments may vary.
The first line of treatment is typically lifestyle modification and home care, such as quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly to improve blood circulation.
Some patients may find relief from a topical cream, ankingoceans, or hot and cold compresses.
Medications are also available to relieve neuropathy symptoms. These may include over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories or prescription medications, such as anti-seizure drugs or antidepressants.
For severe cases, some doctors may suggest nerve blocks to reduce pain.
Physical therapy is often recommended to help patients strengthen muscles, lessen stiffness, and improve flexibility and balance. Occupational therapy can help teach new ways to perform daily activities in order to avoid further injury or pain.
Surgery is often a last resort to treat more severe neuropathy and can involve decompressing, or relieving pressure, on the affected nerve, or microvascular decompression which involves resecting abnormal vessels pressing on the nerve.
In some cases, alternative treatments, such as acupuncture and massage, may provide some relief. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional about the best treatment option for neuropathy in the feet to ensure safe, effective care.
How does a DR test for neuropathy?
A doctor will typically use a variety of tests to diagnose neuropathy. This may include a physical exam and nerve function tests. During a physical exam, the doctor will examine the affected area, look for signs of skin change, and assess muscle strength and joint movement.
Nerve function tests are used to assess the degree of nerve damage and measure how well the nerves are functioning. Some of these tests may include:
● Electromyography (EMG). During this test, needles are inserted into the muscle to measure the electrical activity of the nerve.
● Nerve conduction velocity (NCV). This test measures the speed of electrical signals as they pass through a nerve.
● Sensory Nerve Action Potential (SNAP). This test measures the signals sent along sensory nerves.
● Quantitative sensory testing (QST). This test uses special devices to measure touch and the ability to sense heat and cold.
The doctor may also request blood tests to look for underlying causes of nerve damage, such as diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, and autoimmune conditions. Imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, may also be used to detect any abnormalities in the spinal cord or peripheral nerves.
What does a neurologist do for foot neuropathy?
A neurologist can help diagnose and treat foot neuropathy, which is a condition that is characterized by nerve damage in the feet. Depending on its cause and severity, foot neuropathy can result in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.
In order to properly diagnose foot neuropathy, a neurologist might evaluate a patient’s history, do a neurological exam, and assess the patient’s gait and posture. Additional tests, such as electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies (NCS), might be ordered to assess nerve function.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the neurologist will develop a treatment plan to address the underlying cause of the patient’s foot neuropathy. This could include physical therapy, occupational therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
In cases of severe foot neuropathy, more aggressive treatments like nerve surgeries or nerve blocks may be recommended.
In addition to providing treatment, a neurologist may also prescribe special shoes, shoe inserts, or braces to reduce pressure or help stabilize the foot. If the foot neuropathy is related to diabetes, the neurologist will work with the patient’s primary care physician and specialist to ensure the patient is adhering to a diabetes management plan.
Overall, a neurologist can help diagnose and treat foot neuropathy to reduce the uncomfortable symptoms associated with the condition and improve the patient’s overall quality of life.
How serious is neuropathy in feet?
Neuropathy in the feet is a very serious condition, as it can limit mobility and cause pain, as well as lead to other complications. If a person has foot neuropathy, their peripheral nerves are damaged or disrupted, which can interfere with the transmission of sensations to the brain.
This means a person with neuropathy in the feet may not be able to feel sensations such as heat, cold, or pain, and may even have signs of weakness or instability. This can lead to an increased risk of falls and other injuries, as well as an increased risk of developing serious problems such as arthritis, skin injuries, infection, deformity, and ulcers.
Additionally, neuropathy may cause numbness and tingling in the feet and toes, as well as burning or sharp shooting pains; these sensations can make it difficult for a person to move or even walk normally.
Therefore, neuropathy in the feet is extremely serious, and can have significant implications for a person’s life if it is not properly managed.
Can foot neuropathy be fixed?
Whether foot neuropathy can be fixed depends on the underlying cause. Neuropathy is a general term used to describe damage to the peripheral nervous system. It typically affects the hands and feet, causing numbness, tingling, weakness, and other symptoms.
Foot neuropathy can be caused by a variety of conditions and treatments, including injury, disease, certain medications, and certain conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and more.
If the cause of the neuropathy is determined, such as a vitamin deficiency, then it may be fixable with vitamin supplements. In cases of diabetes-related neuropathy, controlling blood glucose levels and managing other chronic conditions may help reduce symptoms.
Treatments like physical therapy, laser therapy, or electrical nerve stimulation may also alleviate pain and improve functionality. If foot neuropathy is caused by an underlying medical condition, then treating that condition may help reduce neuropathy symptoms.
If the cause of foot neuropathy is unknown, it may be difficult to determine how to fix it. In some cases, neuropathy may improve over time with lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding a sedentary lifestyle, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding exposure to toxins.
If neuropathy persists or causes severe symptoms, then other treatments may be necessary, such as medications, surgery, or nerve stimulation. Ultimately, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the underlying cause and determine the best course of treatment.
Does Vicks Vaporub on feet help neuropathy?
Vicks Vaporub is a topical ointment usually meant to treat symptoms of colds, such as cough and congestion. While it may provide temporary relief of minor aches and pains, it should not be used to treat serious illnesses or conditions.
Neuropathy is a general term used to describe damage to the nerves in the peripheral nervous system which can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling. Treatments for neuropathy may include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to reduce symptoms.
However, there is no definitive cure and treatment is often tailored to the individual needs of the person. Therefore, it is important to consult a physician before trying anything that may be perceived as a “remedy” for neuropathy.
Can a podiatrist help me with neuropathy?
Yes, a podiatrist can help you with neuropathy. Neuropathy is a condition that affects the peripheral nervous system and can cause a wide range of symptoms, from muscle weakness to pain. A podiatrist specializes in treating conditions and diseases of the feet, ankles and lower legs that can result from neuropathy.
They can conduct a thorough assessment of the affected area and recommend treatment for any issues that may exist, such as custom orthotic shoe inserts, special shoes or casts to offload pressure. A podiatrist can also recommend lifestyle changes to help alleviate symptoms, such as participating in stretching exercises or using special socks or wraps to provide support.
Furthermore, a podiatrist may refer patients to specialists such as neurologists or physical therapists, who can provide additional care and advice.
What makes neuropathy of the feet worse?
Neuropathy of the feet can be aggravated by multiple factors, including lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, and external influences like weather. Lifestyle choices can include activities like vigorous exercise or regularly wearing high-heeled shoes.
Underlying health conditions such as diabetes, malnutrition, autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, and liver disease can increase the likelihood of developing neuropathy. External influences like weather can aggravate neuropathy conditions as well.
Heat, cold, and humidity can all affect nerve sensations and cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the feet and other parts of the body. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels, reducing circulation, and cause nerve damage.
Conversely, extreme heat can cause feet to swell, leading to discomfort and possibly additional damage. Certain medications have also been known to cause nerve damage, making nerve pain worse.