Neuropathy Specialist

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to permanent nerve damage. It typically starts in the hands or feet and gradually spreads to other parts of the body. 

Neuropathy occurs for various reasons, but it’s typically due to diabetes. Without proper management, high blood sugar levels can cause your nerves to malfunction, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms and potentially serious health problems.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy?

Common symptoms of neuropathy include:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• “Pins and needles” sensations
• Muscle weakness
• Burning, throbbing, or stabbing pain

As neuropathy progresses, you might also experience mobility issues, like a loss of balance.

How does neuropathy affect the feet?

Neuropathy damages your nerves and their ability to send signals to your brain. When nerve damage occurs in the feet, you can develop a blister or step on a sharp object and not realize it. 

If you don’t experience any pain, you don’t realize the cut is an issue. Harmful bacteria or debris can enter the wound, causing an infection or gangrene. Without prompt intervention, these issues increase the risk of amputation.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

To diagnose neuropathy, the Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist team reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and conducts a physical exam. Then, they conduct a neurological exam and test your reflexes, coordination, and balance, as well as your strength and muscle tone. 

If these steps don’t provide enough information, your provider might order blood work or imaging tests. These diagnostic measures can pinpoint vitamin, mineral, or electrolyte imbalances. You might also benefit from a nerve conduction study or electromyography — a test that measures the electrical activity in your muscles.

How is neuropathy treated?

Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist treats neuropathy with a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and MLS laser therapy.

For example, eating a balanced diet and regularly monitoring your blood sugar levels can significantly minimize the risk of additional nerve damage. Your provider might also recommend quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight.

MLS laser therapy is a noninvasive, drug-free alternative to prescription medication. It converts concentrated light into biochemical energy, relieving inflammation and swelling throughout the body. 

Research shows that MLS laser therapy is safe, effective, and stimulates inter-cellular activity, encouraging the body’s natural healing process.

To learn more about the treatment of neuropathy, make an appointment at Vittori Foot & Ankle Specialist. Call the nearest office or click the online booking tool.