Peripheral neuropathy foot examination at Foot Centers of Maryland

Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment in Maryland

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition caused by damage to the peripheral nerves, most often in the feet. This damage disrupts communication between the nerves and the brain, leading to changes in sensation and muscle function. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common form. At Foot Centers of Maryland, our podiatrists diagnose and manage neuropathy for patients in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD, with a focus on relieving symptoms and preventing serious complications.

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Symptoms of Nerve Damage in the Feet

Symptoms usually begin subtly in the toes and gradually spread up the foot and leg:

  • Numbness: Loss of feeling or a sense of “deadness” in the feet, which increases the risk of undetected injuries.
  • Pain: Burning, shooting, or electric-like pain that is often worse at night.
  • Tingling: A buzzing, prickling, or pins-and-needles sensation.
  • Extreme Sensitivity: Feet that hurt with even light touch, such as bed sheets.
  • Motor Problems: Muscle weakness, difficulty walking, or loss of balance.

What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?

  • Diabetes: Long-term high blood sugar is the leading cause of nerve damage in the feet.
  • Nerve Compression: Entrapment conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Low levels of vitamin B12 and other nutrients.
  • Systemic Diseases: Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, autoimmune conditions, and infections.
  • Other Factors: Alcohol use, certain medications, chemotherapy, and injury.

Diagnosing Neuropathy

Identifying the cause is essential for effective management. Diagnosis includes a detailed health history, a physical examination, and in-office nerve function tests such as monofilament and vibration testing. When needed, we may recommend specialized nerve conduction studies (NCS/EMG) to measure how well your nerves are working.

Comprehensive Treatment and Risk Management

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing progression, and, most importantly, preventing complications:

  • Pain Relief: Prescription topical creams and oral medications to calm nerve pain.
  • Protective Care: Daily foot inspections and a structured diabetic foot care plan.
  • Custom Footwear: Therapeutic shoes and custom orthotics to prevent abnormal pressure that leads to ulcers.
  • Advanced Therapies: Shockwave Therapy (EPAT) may help manage chronic, debilitating nerve pain.

Why Early Care Matters

Because neuropathy reduces your ability to feel pain, small cuts, blisters, or pressure sores can go unnoticed and turn into wounds that are slow to heal. Regular podiatry visits help catch these problems early. If you already have a wound, our wound care team can help it heal and lower your risk of infection.

Peripheral Neuropathy FAQs

What is peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. In the feet, it commonly causes numbness, tingling, burning pain, and weakness.

Is neuropathy always caused by diabetes?

No. Diabetes is the most common cause, but neuropathy can also result from nerve compression, vitamin deficiencies, kidney or thyroid disease, alcohol use, certain medications, and injury.

Can neuropathy be reversed?

Some causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or nerve compression, may improve with treatment. In many cases, the goal is to control symptoms, slow progression, and prevent complications.

Why is neuropathy dangerous for my feet?

Loss of feeling means you may not notice injuries, which can lead to ulcers and infections. Daily foot checks and regular podiatry care are essential.

How is neuropathy diagnosed?

Your podiatrist will review your history and perform nerve tests such as monofilament and vibration testing. Nerve conduction studies may be recommended in some cases.

What can help with burning foot pain at night?

Prescription topical and oral medications, proper blood sugar control, and advanced therapies may help reduce nighttime nerve pain.

Should I wear special shoes if I have neuropathy?

Therapeutic shoes and custom orthotics can reduce pressure points and protect your feet from injury.

Get Relief from Neuropathy Symptoms

Numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet should be evaluated. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office, Mercy Office, Reisterstown Office, Glen Burnie Office, or Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.

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