Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord are damaged. Nerves most commonly first affected are the ones farthest away from the centre of the body including the hands and feet.
There are 3 types of neuropathy - sensory, autonomic and motor - each presenting with different signs and symptoms. Some patients can even have more than one type of neuropathy.
Common signs and symptoms:
Sensory neuropathy: burning, tingling, numbness, prickling, sensitivity to touch, feeling like you are wearing socks when you are not
Autonomic neuropathy: excess OR decreased sweating, heat intolerance,
Motor neuropathy: muscle cramps, muscle twitching, abnormal reflexes, muscle weakness, altered balance, changes in foot structure
What causes neuropathy?
There are many causes of neuropathy including:
Diabetes
Trauma to a nerve
Vitamin deficiencies (i.e., B12, E)
Alcohol abuse
Smoking
High blood pressure
Autoimmune disorders (i.e., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Infections (i.e., lyme disease, HIV, shingles)
Exposure to toxins (i.e., heavy metals, chemotherapy drugs, chemicals)
Genetic disorders
Hypo/Hyper-thyroidism
Medications
Liver disease
Kidney disease
Prevention/Treatment Options
The best prevention method for neuropathy is to manage and treat the condition that may put you at risk for neuropathy in the first place.
If the neuropathy is established, the following treatment options may be considered depending on the cause of your neuropathy:
Proper footwear - cushioned, wide toe box
Proper diet
Vitamin B12 (essential to nerve health)
Controlling blood sugars
Cutting down on alcohol / smoking
Regular exercise
Pharmacological treatments (i.e., Antidepressants, Anticonvulsants, Anti-inflammatories)
Physical therapy
Surgery
The foot specialists at East Foot Clinic can help treat neuropathy. To book an appointment please call 647-501-3338 or email info@eastfootclinic.com.