Foot Neuropathy Treatment

Foot neuropathy is characterized by a painful tingling sensation and numbness in the foot. Foot neuropathy can also cause muscle weakness, a burning sensation and slow reflexes due to damage to the foot's peripheral nerves. Diseases such as diabetes, alcoholism and HIV may cause foot neuropathy. There are foot neuropathy treatments available that prevent further nerve damage to the foot or reduce the symptoms of foot neuropathy. Foot neuropathy treatments are especially effective if the disease is detected early, before too many nerve cells have been destroyed.

Medicinal Treatment

• One type of foot neuropathy treatment is over-the-counter or prescription creams that are designed to protect and moisturize feet and to reduce symptoms of foot neuropathy such as numbness, tingling and burning.

Diet

• If foot neuropathy is caused by diabetes, your doctor may recommend a treatment regimen that better controls blood sugar levels, such as a change in diet or medication. Physical therapy may also be recommended to improve an individual's ability to use the feet.

Alternative Therapies

• Acupuncture and massage are often used as treatments for foot neuropathy, although there is little research that supports their effectiveness.

Surgery

• One type of treatment for foot neuropathy is surgical decompression. This type of treatment works by decompressing the feet's constricted nerves to promote circulation and eliminate further damage of nerves.

Warning

• If you have any signs of foot neuropathy, it is important to talk to your physician immediately. Untreated foot neuropathy could result in loss of mobility or other serious complications.

Prevention/Solution

• Since foot neuropathy is usually caused by pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, the best way to prevent its onset is by managing your disease. For example, if you are diabetic, be sure to follow the treatment regimen recommended by your health care provider.