Having neuropathy in your feet can be incredibly uncomfortable and painful. Common symptoms of neuropathy in the feet can include burning, numbness, tingling, needling, and sharp shooting pains. At times the pain can feel like an electric shock, or an intense burning that can be unbearable.
Not only does neuropathy in the feet cause intense pain, it can lead to balance and mobility issues. As neuropathy progresses, difficulty and pain caused when walking can become so severe that it is best to avoid it altogether.
Additionally, neuropathy can leave the feet feeling cold or overly sensitive to the touch. These symptoms can be constant or sporadic, and they can range from mild to severe. All of these factors can result in feelings of isolation and helplessness, as the person suffering may feel as though no one truly understands the physical and emotional pain they are enduring.
What causes neuropathy in feet to flare up?
Neuropathy in the feet can be caused by a number of conditions and can take several forms, which can make diagnosis difficult. In general, neuropathy refers to any damage or impairments to the peripheral nervous system, which controls numerous functions in the body, including how signals are sent and received from the brain to the rest of the body.
Although neuropathy can be caused by several forms of health problems, the most common cause of neuropathy in the feet is diabetes. Diabetes can damage nerves due to high levels of sugar in the blood, leading to neuropathy.
Other causes of neuropathy in the feet include infections, physical injuries, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, kidney failure, vitamin deficiencies, toxic substances (pesticides and solvents), and inherited diseases (like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease).
In some cases, neuropathy can flare up when a person is exposed to certain factors, like certain medications, prolonged compression of the nerves, foods and drinks with high sugar content, prolonged periods of sitting or standing, lack of sleep, and even stress.
In addition, sometimes consuming foods high in saturated fats and trans fats can lead to inflammation and can act as triggers for neuropathy flare-ups. In cold temperatures, some people may experience more flare-ups from neuropathy.
If you experience flare-ups while going through any of the activities outlined above or have any suspected causes of neuropathy, it is important to seek medical advice immediately. Depending on the cause of the neuropathy, treatments may include lifestyle changes (such as diet or exercise), medications, physical therapy, nerve blocks, acupuncture, or even surgery.
How do you get rid of neuropathy in the feet?
Neuropathy, or nerve damage, in the feet can be caused by a variety of illnesses and conditions, such as diabetes, chemotherapy, traumatic injuries, certain autoimmune diseases, inherited metabolic disorders, and exposure to some toxins.
Depending on the cause of the nerve damage, the best treatment for neuropathy in the feet will vary.
If the cause of the neuropathy can be addressed directly, such as diabetes, controlling or eliminating the underlying cause can help to minimize pain and improve nerve functioning. This might involve changes to diet and lifestyle, medications, or other treatments.
It is important to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider for an individualized treatment plan.
If the cause of the neuropathy cannot be addressed directly, a variety of treatments can help to manage the symptoms and reduce pain. These include medications such as pain relievers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants; immunomodulating drugs; natural supplements; physical therapy; nerve stimulation treatments; and surgery, in rare cases.
Additionally, there are some lifestyle changes that can help to reduce pain and improve functioning of nerves in the feet. These include avoiding unnecessary pressure on the feet, such as wearing well-fitting shoes, proper foot hygiene, and regular exercise to help reduce pain and improve circulation.
Implementing stress reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing may also be helpful.
Does foot neuropathy ever go away?
Foot neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can cause sensory symptoms such as tingling, burning, and numbness in the feet. Foot neuropathy is a complex condition, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
In some cases, foot neuropathy may go away on its own as the nerves repair and recover from the damage. If a definitive cause can be identified, such as a deficiency of certain vitamins or a toxin, treating the underlying condition may also help to reduce or resolve the neuropathy.
In more severe cases, ongoing treatment and management may be needed to improve the symptoms.
The best approach to successfully managing foot neuropathy is to seek professional advice from a doctor. Depending on the individual’s presentation, the doctor can recommend a range of treatments such as medications, lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and cognitive therapy.
It is important to follow the doctor’s advice to the letter and be patient while the treatment takes effect. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, many people have been able to improve their condition, reduce pain, and improve the quality of their lives.
What is the most successful treatment for neuropathy?
The treatment of neuropathy can vary depending on the cause, but commonly recommended therapies are as follows:
1. Medications. Depending on the cause of your neuropathy, your doctor may recommend medications to help reduce pain, regulate blood glucose levels, or treat any underlying infections or inflammation.
Some examples of drugs that may be used include antidepressants, anticonvulsants, topical analgesics, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and steroids.
2. Physical therapy. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Your physical therapist may also use heat, ice, and other types of massage to reduce pain and stiffness.
3. Hot and cold treatment. Applying heat or cold to the affected areas can help relieve neuropathy pain. Over-the-counter heated pads, ice packs, and creams may provide temporary relief.
4. Topical creams. Your doctor may recommend creams containing capsaicin, lidocaine, or menthol, which can help to numb the area and reduce pain.
5. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This therapy uses mild electrical pulses to stimulate the nerves and reduce pain.
Overall, the most successful treatment for neuropathy depends on the particular case and what works best for you. Talk to your doctor about finding the best treatment for you.
Does Vicks Vaporub on feet help neuropathy?
While there is no medical evidence that directly proves that Vicks Vaporub can help with neuropathy, its active ingredients “including camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol, provide a cooling sensation and can help relax muscles, soothe nerve pain and reduce inflammation in muscles, tendons and ligaments” according to the manufacturer.
Studies further suggest that the cooling sensation can provide relief from discomfort.
The cooling sensation provided by Vicks Vaporub has been used to treat joint pain, muscle ache, stiffness, and other discomforts associated with neuropathy. However, since the active ingredients have not been studied extensively in the context of neuropathy management, it is best used as a complimentary approach.
This means that it should be used in combination with a prescribed treatment from a health care professional.
If you’re interested in using Vicks Vaporub to help manage neuropathy pain, talk to your health care provider about incorporating it into your overall treatment plan.
What vitamins treat nerve damage?
Vitamins can play an important role in helping to treat nerve damage. While they won’t do the repair work themselves, they can support healthy nerve functioning and help the body heal from some of the damage associated with nerve issues.
As part of a healthy lifestyle and treatment plan, some of the most important vitamins to consider for nerve health include Vitamin B12, B6, D, E, and K, as well as fatty acids.
Vitamin B12 is especially important for nerve health because it helps protect nerves cells and build healthy myelin—the protective sheath which makes up the majority of nerves. It can even help heal any damage that is present.
Vitamin B6 is additionally important for helping to create healthy neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that enable communication between different parts of the nervous system. Vitamin B6 should be taken in combination with B12, as it is necessary for B12 absorption.
In addition to B vitamins, there are several other vitamins that can be beneficial for nerve health. Vitamin D is important for proper muscle function, and A and E can both provide antioxidant protection which can help prevent damage to nerves.
Finally, Vitamin K is important for helping to regulate calcium—a key factor in healthy nerve conduction.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also very important in terms of nerve health, as they can help reduce inflammation and improve nerve cell function. All of these vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids should be taken with the approval of a healthcare provider, as long-term use of some may have side effects.
A balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats should ensure adequate intake of most of these important nutrients.
Can neuropathy in feet be reversed?
Yes, it is possible to reverse neuropathy in the feet. Depending on the cause of the neuropathy, treatment will vary. However, there are many things one can do to reverse the condition, such as quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar levels, improving nutrition, exercising regularly, and taking medication or vitamins that support healthy nerve function.
Other treatments such as physical or occupational therapy, nerve stimulation therapies, laser therapy, and acupuncture may also be beneficial in restoring nerve function and reversing the symptoms of neuropathy in the feet.
Additionally, making lifestyle changes such as taking regular breaks while standing or sitting, wearing comfortable shoes, and protecting the feet from injury can help to reduce pain, improve function, and reverse neuropathy.
Where do your feet hurt with neuropathy?
Neuropathy can cause pain, discomfort, and other sensations in the feet, which tend to be more severe in individuals with diabetes. Symptoms may include burning, tingling, sharp electrical shocks, stabbing, or radiating pain.
These sensations may be worse at night and can make it difficult to sleep. Some individuals may experience an overall numbness or decreased sensation on the feet. Some individuals may also have difficulty walking because of their neuropathy.
Other common symptoms of neuropathy in the feet include muscle weakness, a loss of reflexes, and changes in the sweat patterns on the feet.
How do I know if my foot pain is neuropathy?
If you are experiencing foot pain, it is important to first understand what type of pain it is. Neuropathy is a type of peripheral nerve disorder that can affect a person’s feet. Common symptoms of neuropathy in the feet include burning, tingling, numbness, or stabbing pains.
These sensations can be mild to severe and can come and go. If the sensations last for more than two weeks and are severe enough to affect your daily activities, it is important to get medical attention to diagnose and treat the condition.
A doctor may be able to diagnose neuropathy using physical exams, lab tests, or neurological tests. If neuropathy is suspected, treatment may include medications to control pain and inflammation, or physical therapy to help manage it.
Where is neuropathy foot pain located?
Neuropathy foot pain is typically located in the toes, feet, ankles, or legs. It is usually felt as burning, stabbing, tingling, or numbness. Neuropathy is caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that originate in the brain and spinal cord and are responsible for carrying information to and from the rest of the body.
Depending on the type and severity of the neuropathy, the pain may be felt in different locations throughout the foot, affecting either the top, bottom, outside, or inside of the foot. It can also travel up the leg and even feel like it’s in the hip area.
In some cases, the pain can be widespread throughout the foot and leg, causing extreme discomfort. Depending on the cause and severity of the neuropathy, various treatments ranging from medications, lifestyle changes, supplements, physical therapy and foot braces can help manage the pain and discomfort associated with it.
Is neuropathy on top or bottom of feet?
Neuropathy can affect both the top and bottom of the feet, depending on the type and severity of the condition. Neuropathy is a nerve disorder that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling, and it can be caused by many different conditions, including diabetes, certain metabolic diseases, certain medications, infectious diseases, traumatic injuries, and vitamin deficiencies, among others.
Common areas of the foot that may be affected by neuropathy include the toes and soles, and can extend up the ankle, calf and even thigh. Symptoms can vary based on the cause and severity of the condition, but commonly include a feeling of burning or shooting pain, or an electric sensation travelling through the foot or even a feeling of numbness or loss of sensation.
It is important to detect the early signs of neuropathy and discuss them with a doctor, as the condition may cause additional complications if left untreated, such as decreases in muscle strength and coordination, or skin breakdown due to a lack of sensation and protective reflexes.
Can anything be done for neuropathy in the feet?
Yes, there are several treatments available for neuropathy in the feet. Depending on the cause, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes even surgery. If lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular exercise can help to relieve symptoms, it may be recommended as part of treatment.
Medications such as anti-inflammatory medications, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications can help to reduce the pain and other symptoms. In some severe cases, surgery may be necessary to help with nerve regeneration and provide relief to the feet.
Physical therapy and over-the-counter foot supports may also be recommended as part of a treatment plan. Finally, healing with natural supplements can also be beneficial, although more research is needed to better understand their effectiveness.
Ultimately, it’s important to discuss with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your situation.