Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a term that refers to disorders of the peripheral nerves. This nervous system is made up of the nerves that branch out of the spinal cord to different parts of the body.

The peripheral nervous system consists of motor (to help move) nerves and sensory (to help feel) nerves. Either or both sets of nerves can be affected in neuropathy.

If a sensory nerve is damaged, the predominant symptoms are pain, numbness, tingling, burning or a loss of feeling. They often begin gradually. There may be tingling sensation or numbness that starts in the toes or the balls of the feet and spreads up.

Diabetic neuropathy is the most common type and can lead to serious complications in those with diabetes. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy means damage of nerve fibers in people with diabetes. There are three types of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: Sensory which is loose the ability to detect sensations such as heat, cold, pain. Motor: is loss of strength to control movement and autonomic which regulate functions such as heart rate and digestion.

The treatment for peripheral neuropathy will differ, depending on the cause. For example, if it is caused by diabetes the therapy involves better control of the diabetes. If it is caused by a

vitamin deficiency, then supplementation will help.

As numbness is common in peripheral neuropathy, damage to the foot can go undetected and lead to serious complications especially in those who also have diabetes. It is best to protect the foot with good fitting footwear and the foot should be inspected daily for damage. Particular attention should be paid to corns and calluses as these may need treatment by your podiatrist.

If you are diabetic it is very important to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist Give the office of Dr. T. F. Vail a call to set up an appointment if you experience any of the above symptoms or you a diabetic. 419-423-1888.

Or you can go to our website and there are various products for diabetics and if you are experiencing neuropathy.

This product is called Corganics Relief Topical Analgesic Cream. It is specially formulated for diabetic neuropathy, restless leg syndrome and deep muscle and joint pain.