Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged.

These nerves carry information between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. When they are damaged, changes in sensation, strength or balance can occur. The feet and legs are commonly affected.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary depending on which nerves are affected and may include:

• numbness or reduced sensation
• tingling or pins and needles
• burning or electric-shock-like pain
• increased sensitivity to touch
• muscle weakness or cramping
• problems with balance or coordination

Symptoms often begin in the toes or feet and may gradually progress further up the legs.

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?

There are many possible causes of peripheral neuropathy.

These may include:

• diabetes
• vitamin deficiencies
• thyroid conditions
• some medicines or medical treatments
• long-term alcohol use
• infection
• pressure or injury to a nerve
• certain inherited or immune-related conditions

Sometimes, no specific cause can be identified.

Why is Peripheral Neuropathy Important for Foot Health?

Reduced sensation in the feet can make it harder to notice cuts, blisters, pressure areas or other injuries.

If these problems are not detected early, there can be an increased risk of skin breakdown, infection and foot ulcers. Balance may also be affected, which can increase the risk of falls.

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

A podiatrist can assess the feet and identify changes that may place them at increased risk.

Depending on your individual needs, a podiatry assessment may include:

• checking sensation in the feet
• assessing circulation and skin health
• reviewing footwear
• identifying areas of excessive pressure
• treating corns, calluses or nail problems where appropriate
• providing advice on daily foot care
• recommending strategies to reduce the risk of injury
• referring to your GP or another health professional when further investigation is required

Regular foot assessment can be particularly important for people with diabetes or reduced sensation in their feet.

Looking After Your Feet

If you have reduced sensation, it is important to check your feet regularly for changes such as cuts, blisters, redness, swelling or broken skin.

Comfortable, well-fitting footwear can help protect the feet from pressure and injury.

If you notice a new wound, infection, significant colour change or another concerning change in your feet, seek professional assessment promptly.

When Should You Seek Further Assessment?

New or unexplained numbness, tingling, weakness or burning pain should be medically assessed, particularly if symptoms are worsening.

Peripheral neuropathy can have many causes, so identifying the underlying cause is an important part of managing the condition.