Peripheral Neuropathy with Constant Foot Pain

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nervous system, and chronic foot pain is one of its most common symptoms.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, chronic pain and tingling sensations, especially in the feet or other extremities. Peripheral neuropathy may impair coordination and cause muscle weakness and bladder and bowel problems.

Causes

• Peripheral neuropathy may be caused by certain medical conditions, including diabetes, lupus, Guillain-Barré syndrome, HIV/AIDS, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Injuries, infections, exposure to toxins, vitamin B deficiency and excessive alcohol consumption may also cause peripheral neuropathy.

Diagnosis

• A complete physical and neurological exam is typically conducted to determine the cause of peripheral neuropathy. Urine and blood testing and thyroid functioning tests may also be conducted.

Treatment

• Over-the-counter and prescription medications may be used to treat pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. Anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants and Cymbalta have shown effectiveness in treating symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Prevention

• Quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, getting adequate exercise and eating a healthy diet that includes sufficient amounts of vitamin B may help prevent peripheral neuropathy. Diabetics should monitor blood glucose levels regularly, since high levels may cause peripheral neuropathy.