Did you know that neuropathy is a painful condition that affects 25-30% of American adults? The orthopedic surgeons and podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of NJ & NY, LLC provide prompt diagnosis and treatment of neuropathy and the highest standard of podiatric care at their offices in Fort Lee, New Jersey, Forest Hills, New York, Gramercy, New York, New York, & East Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York. Regain better control of your peripheral nervous system and protect the health of your feet and your nerves by calling Foot and Ankle Center of NJ & NY, LLC or scheduling an appointment online.

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What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to any medical condition that affects the normal activity of the nerves of your peripheral nervous system. Your peripheral nervous system connects your spinal cord and brain — your central nervous system — to the rest of your body. If these important nerves are damaged, there’s often some degree of interference with the communication between your brain and the rest of your body.

Your peripheral nervous system is made up of three types of nerves:

Sensory nerves

These nerves carry signals to assist you in recognizing sensations like hot and cold.

Motor nerves

These nerves transmit messages from your brain to your muscles in response to stimuli.

Autonomic nerves

These nerves control your vital body functions like digestion, blood pressure, and heart rate.

The specialists of Foot and Ankle Center of NJ & NY, LLC work hard to get to the root cause of your neuropathy and determine the best ways to treat it.

What causes neuropathy?

You can develop neuropathy later in life or it could be passed down in your genes. Some of the nonhereditary causes of neuropathy include:

  • Trauma
  • Autoimmune disorders
  • Infections
  • Exposure to toxic substances
  • Vascular disorders
  • Vitamin imbalances
  • Alcoholism
  • Diabetes and other systemic conditions
  • Medications

The cause of as many as 30-40% of neuropathy cases is unknown. Diabetes often causes nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy.

How is neuropathy treated?

Your podiatrist first takes a complete medical history and could recommend nerve testing, muscle testing, X-rays, and other tests. Your podiatrist devises personalized treatment based on the source of your condition and could recommend a number of treatments.

Physical therapy

Your podiatrist might recommend a personalized and appropriate exercise plan.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy can reduce pain and promote healing.

Lifestyle changes

Your podiatrist might suggest eating a nutrient-dense diet and managing stress to boost your general health.

Assistive orthotic devices

Assistive orthotic devices can relieve pain and help you walk when needed.

Medications

Most neuropathy medications are designed to relieve pain and swelling like anti-inflammatories, steroids, and pain-relievers.

It’s important you inspect and clean your feet daily and look for noticeable changes in skin color, pain, swelling, and/or loss of sensation. Avoid ingrown toenails since they can become infected, and quit smoking because it reduces the flow of blood to your feet.

Buy shoes that fit comfortably and wear clean, dry socks every day. You should also avoid walking barefoot to protect your feet from harmful objects.

Don’t live in fear of the pain and possible complications of neuropathy when compassionate and effective medical care is available. Book your personal consultation online or call Foot and Ankle Center of NJ & NY, LLC today.