Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment in Alexandria, VA
Tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain in your feet may be signs of peripheral neuropathy. At Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA , diagnosing and treating neuropathy is an area of specialty, and our doctors offer advanced options to relieve symptoms and protect your feet from serious complications.
Book OnlineWhat Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Your central nervous system consists of your brain and spinal cord. The nerves that extend throughout the rest of your body make up your peripheral nervous system, carrying messages to and from your brain. Peripheral neuropathy develops when these nerves are damaged or diseased. It can be very painful, interfere with daily tasks, and even make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
- Diabetes, the most common cause
- Infections like Lyme disease, shingles, or diphtheria
- Autoimmune diseases
- Kidney or liver disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Bone marrow disorders and tumors
- Nerve trauma or compression
- Certain medications
- Hereditary factors
It isn’t always possible to identify the exact cause, which is why it’s important to see a specialist when you notice changes in how your feet feel. This is especially true for people with diabetes, who often lose sensation and may not feel developing wounds. Our wound care and limb salvage expertise helps protect at-risk patients.
Symptoms of Neuropathy
- Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature
- Tingling or pins-and-needles sensations
- Sharp, burning, throbbing, or jabbing pain
- A feeling of wearing socks when barefoot
- Sensitivity to touch
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of balance or coordination
An occasional symptom usually isn’t a cause for concern, but if symptoms persist, schedule a visit. Some symptoms can overlap with Morton’s neuroma or tarsal tunnel syndrome, so an accurate diagnosis matters.
Neuropathy Treatment Options
If you’re diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, your treatment plan may include:
- Medications, including pain relievers, topical treatments, and certain nerve-calming medications
- Physical therapy to improve strength and balance
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), an outpatient treatment that uses acoustic waves to promote healing
- Protective footwear and custom orthotics
- Routine diabetic nail care and foot exams
- Surgery in select cases, such as nerve decompression or removal of tumors causing nerve damage
Dr. Victoria Nolte brings advanced training in peripheral nerve surgery, offering additional options for patients with nerve compression. Learn more about our doctors and the conditions we treat.
Neuropathy FAQs
What is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy?
Diabetes is the most common cause, but infections, autoimmune disease, vitamin deficiencies, medications, and nerve trauma can also lead to neuropathy.
What does neuropathy in the feet feel like?
Patients often describe numbness, tingling, burning, sharp or electric pain, sensitivity to touch, or a feeling of wearing socks when barefoot.
Can neuropathy be reversed?
Some causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or nerve compression, can improve with treatment. In other cases, treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing progression.
Why is neuropathy dangerous for people with diabetes?
Loss of sensation means injuries may go unnoticed, increasing the risk of ulcers, infections, and amputation.
Can shockwave therapy help neuropathy?
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is an outpatient option that uses acoustic waves to promote healing and may help relieve symptoms for some patients.
Is there surgery for neuropathy?
In select cases, such as nerve compression, surgical nerve decompression can relieve symptoms. Dr. Nolte has advanced training in peripheral nerve surgery.
How can I protect my feet if I have neuropathy?
Check your feet daily, wear protective shoes, avoid walking barefoot, keep skin moisturized, and schedule regular podiatry exams.
Find Relief From Neuropathy Symptoms
Protect your feet and your quality of life. Call (703) 370-2313 or request an appointment online with Landmark Foot & Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA .
