Neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that occurs when nerves become damaged. It most commonly affects the feet and lower legs, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or pain. At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, our experienced podiatrists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment options to help patients manage neuropathy and protect their foot health.
If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, call (314) 596-9670 to schedule an appointment today.
What Is Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves that send signals between your brain, spinal cord, and extremities become damaged. Since the longest nerves in the body reach the feet, symptoms often begin there.
Neuropathy can affect:
- Sensation (feeling)
- Muscle control
- Balance and coordination
Without proper treatment, neuropathy may lead to complications such as foot injuries, ulcers, or infections, especially for patients with diabetes.
Common Symptoms of Neuropathy
Neuropathy symptoms can develop gradually and may worsen over time. Common signs include:
- Numbness in the feet or toes
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
- Burning or sharp pain in the feet
- Increased sensitivity to touch
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Difficulty feeling injuries or temperature changes
If you notice these symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation to prevent further nerve damage.
Causes of Neuropathy
Neuropathy can develop from a variety of underlying health conditions. Common causes include:
- Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)
- Poor circulation
- Nerve compression or injury
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Certain medications
- Alcohol use
- Autoimmune disorders
- Infections
Our podiatry team works to identify the root cause of your neuropathy so that the most effective treatment plan can be created.
Why Neuropathy Is Dangerous for Your Feet
Because neuropathy reduces sensation, many patients cannot feel injuries, cuts, or pressure points on their feet. This increases the risk of:
- Foot ulcers
- Skin infections
- Slow-healing wounds
- Structural foot problems
- Serious complications if untreated
Routine foot exams and early treatment are essential to protecting long-term foot health.
Neuropathy Treatment Options
At St. Louis Foot & Ankle, we offer personalized treatment plans designed to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Treatment options may include:
- Diabetic foot care management
- Custom orthotics to reduce pressure
- Medication to manage nerve pain
- Lifestyle and nutritional guidance
- Footwear recommendations
- Wound care for neuropathy-related injuries
- Preventative foot exams
Our goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients maintain healthy feet.
When to See a Podiatrist for Neuropathy
You should schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Persistent numbness or tingling in the feet
- Burning or stabbing pain
- Loss of sensation
- Foot wounds that do not heal
- Balance problems related to your feet
Early diagnosis can help slow nerve damage and prevent serious complications.
Neuropathy Care in St. Louis
If you are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, the team at St. Louis Foot & Ankle is here to help. We provide compassionate care and advanced podiatric treatments to help patients manage nerve conditions affecting their feet.
📞 Call (314) 596-9670 today to schedule your consultation.