If you're having odd sensations in your feet, there is a chance that you may have a nerve problem. Nerve problems are sometimes marked by:
- Burning
- Shooting pain
- Cramping
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Tightness
Who is at Risk for Nerve Problems?
Nerve issues can happen to anyone, but they are most common in individuals with diabetes and people who wear shoes that are too tight. Studies suggest that 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes suffer from nervous system damage, while people who wear poorly fitting shoes run the risk of pinching nerves in their feet. Regardless of what's causing your discomfort, it's important to make an appointment with one of our experienced North Carolina podiatrists so that they can diagnose your condition and help you begin to heal.
Nerve Problems Caused by Injury and Disease
There isn't one kind of general nerve damage when it comes to feet. A tight shoe, a random injury, chemotherapy, diabetes, or something else entirely could be causing your pain. Common nerve problems include:
Morton's Neuroma. This is an injured nerve and the thickening of the tissue that surrounds the nerve leading to the toes. Morton's neuroma can usually be diagnosed by the way the pain shoots out to between your third and fourth toes. High heel shoes can contribute to the occurrence of Morton's neuroma, and pre-existing foot problems such as bunions or hammertoes can also be contributing factors.
Nerve Entrapment. Nerve entrapments are frequently marked by sensitivity on the top of the foot. Shooting or burning pain is often present. Entrapments, commonly known as pinched nerves, can be caused by repetitive compression or some other kind of trauma to the foot. Tight shoes are many times they cause of nerve entrapment.
Peripheral Neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is the result of nerve damage and is considered a disease. People will lose feeling in their feet and sometimes feel a tingling or burning sensation. Diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy, but several other conditions—including chemotherapy and alcoholism—can be causes.
Alcoholic Neuropathy. Alcoholic neuropathy is a nerve loss condition in the foot caused by the prolonged use of alcoholic beverages. Ethanol, the alcoholic component of these drinks, is toxic to nerve tissue. Over time, the nerves in the feet and hands become damaged, resulting in the same loss of sensation that diabetics often encounter. Up to half of all long-term heavy alcohol drinkers develop this condition and the damage to these nerves is permanent.
Nerve Problems Treated by Podiatrists in North Carolina
The podiatrists at Gaston Foot & Ankle Specialists are dedicated to your health and overall well-being. Our board-certified foot and ankle surgeons are trained in all forms of nerve damage and will be able to properly assess your condition. They utilize state-of-the-art technology coupled with good old-fashioned common sense and compassion.
If you believe that you are suffering from nerve problems, contact Gaston Foot & Ankle Specialists in Gastonia, North Carolina for an appointment. Reach us today by calling 704-861-0425.
