Neuropathy

Up to 50% of people with diabetes have peripheral neuropathy or permanent nerve damage. Fortunately, various treatments can relieve pain and prevent the problem from worsening. At Go Feet in Linwood and Mays Landing, New Jersey, board-certified podiatrist Stuart W. Honick, DPM, PT, specializes in neuropathy treatment. He uses cutting-edge Multiwave Locked System® (MLS) laser therapy. This noninvasive technique relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. Call the nearest Go Feet office today to schedule neuropathy treatment, or book your appointment online. 

My feet feel numb. Is it neuropathy?

Neuropathy is damage to your peripheral nerves, those outside your brain and spinal cord. It triggers symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and pain, particularly in the lower extremities. Anyone can develop neuropathy, but it’s most common in people with poorly managed diabetes. 

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Neuropathy symptoms include:

• Extreme sensitivity to touch
• Muscle weakness
• Lack of coordination
• Numbness, prickling, or tingling
• Jabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
• Heat intolerance
• Excessive sweating

In severe cases, neuropathy affects bladder and bowel control. 

Should I see a podiatrist about neuropathy?

Yes. Make an appointment at Go Feet if you have tingling, numbness, or stabbing pain in your legs or feet. Seek treatment even if with mild symptoms. The earlier neuropathy is diagnosed, the easier it is to relieve symptoms and prevent the nerve damage from getting worse.

How does a podiatrist diagnose neuropathy?

Dr. Honick reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms and lifestyle, including if you have diabetes, how often you drink alcohol, and what the pain feels like. Then, he completes a neurological exam, assessing your muscle strength, tendon reflexes, and balance.

Next, Dr. Honick orders lab screens, including bloodwork and nerve function tests. Blood tests can detect vitamin deficiencies or high blood sugar. Nerve function tests check how your nerves and muscles respond to electrical activity.

If Dr. Honick confirms peripheral nerve damage, he develops a personalized treatment plan. 

How does a podiatrist treat neuropathy?

At Go Feet, Dr. Honick treats neuropathy using a conservative and noninvasive approach. He might recommend:

• Prescription pain medication
• Anti-seizure medication
• Topical treatments, like capsaicin cream
• Prescription antidepressants
• Physical therapy
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

If your symptoms continue or worsen, you might benefit from MLS laser therapy, a noninvasive treatment option for various injuries, including nerve damage. It uses targeted light energy (lasers) to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing. 

Can I prevent neuropathy from worsening?

Yes. You can prevent neuropathy from worsening by living a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Honick recommends taking care of your feet (especially if you have diabetes), exercising regularly, and eating a balanced diet. 

You should also monitor your blood sugar daily and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. 

Call the nearest Go Feet office today to schedule treatment for neuropathy, or book your appointment online.