Peripheral Neuropathy In Colorado Springs, CO
Your nerves run throughout your body and allow you to feel and control your limbs. However, you may experience nerve problems due to age, injury, or disease. Dr. Matthew Thomas is your local podiatrist at Pikes Peak Foot and Ankle Clinic. He and his team can help you with peripheral neuropathy in Colorado Springs, CO.
What Is It?
The nerves outside your brain and spinal cord are your peripheral nerves. If you suffer damage to these nerves, that condition is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. This condition can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness. You will likely feel it in the extremities, such as the hands and feet.
What Causes It?
Unfortunately, diabetics have to worry about more than their insulin levels. One of the common effects of this chronic disease is nerve damage from high blood sugar levels. Liver disease and certain cancers are other ailments that may affect the nerves. Excessive alcohol and drug usage are also connected to nerve damage. An unhealthy diet also contributes, especially if you don’t get enough vitamin B12, folate, or iron. Sometimes, the posterior tibial nerve, which travels down the leg into the back of the foot, gets compressed due to swelling in the tunnel it travels through. We call that Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome.
How Does a Podiatrist help?
If you suspect that you have peripheral neuropathy in Colorado Springs, CO, you should see Dr. Thomas as soon as possible. During the initial consultation, expect him to ask about your personal and family medical history.
Your doctor will also perform a physical exam to test the extent of the nerve damage and pain in certain areas. Narrowing down the cause can help decide the best treatment. You can also expect a blood test to check for vitamin deficiencies or underlying diseases like diabetes.
Dr. Thomas can guide you on how to manage and care for your lower extremities when you are suffering from nerve damage. It's vital to inspect your feet daily for sores, ulcers, blisters, and cuts, especially if you have diabetes. People with diabetes often have weakened vascular systems, which makes it harder for the immune system to fight off infections in the lower limbs. This can result in amputations if an infection gets bad enough. Your podiatrist can also fit you for custom orthotics to relieve pressure on your feet when walking and standing. He can prescribe medication to help reduce related pain and refer you to physical therapy sessions to help strengthen your muscles and improve your balance.
Dr. Thomas is your local podiatrist who can diagnose and help treat peripheral neuropathy in Colorado Springs, CO. Call Pikes Peak Foot and Ankle Clinic at 719-867-8838 to take the first step in getting to the root of your nerve pain and numbness.