Peripheral neuropathy is a type of condition that is caused by damaged nerves; specifically, nerves that are carrying the message to and from the brain and spinal cord, also known as the periphery.
Peripheral Neuropathy Can Affect Circulation
The nerves become damaged and destroyed and cannot appropriately deliver signals. Damaged nerves can also affect a body’s internal functions like blood circulation and food digestion. See Figure 1 for a pictorial representation.
Peripheral Neuropathy Can Cause Skin on Your Feet and Toes to be Sensitive
Peripheral neuropathy is often described as burning or tingling, like “pins and needles” in your extremities such as your hands and feet. A patient may experience this from a common condition such as diabetes, infections or certain medications. If you experience these symptoms, you should seek help and treatment from you physician.
Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy
There are many treatment modalities that may be offered to you such as topical creams or medications for the pain. However, some patients opt to use holistic or non-pharmalogical therapies.
This can range from having a warm bath, taking vitamins, going for acupuncture treatments, exercising, and buying certain clothing accessories. Taking a warm bath can help soothe your body and decrease the burning and tingling sensation you may be experiencing. Taking certain vitamins or supplements like Vitamins B can help improve your nerve health. It is always advisable to speak with your physician before starting any new vitamins or supplements.
Acupuncture can help restore blood flow to the body and stimulate the body’s nerve pathways. It can also help with nerve regeneration and preservation. Specialists in acupuncture advice you to schedule weekly sessions to see a difference.
Exercise or physical therapy is critical in your treatment plan for peripheral neuropathy. It may help you reduce the symptoms and improve your quality of life. The physical therapists are movement experts and can help you practice exercises that you can perform daily.
Lastly, as mentioned, one of the most common complaints with patients diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy is the sensory symptoms like the tingling and burning sensation.
A lot people find high sensitivity in the toes and don't like the feel of any fabric touching their toes. Freetoes is a good solution if you are looking for some comfort without the restriction; it is made with stretchy poly cotton, they are not compression socks, and comes in fun colors and patterns!
Your health care team may want you to have added protection your hands and feet, as they are susceptible to becoming dry and cracked. Socks and or gloves with a soft material may be the comfort you are looking for. When searching for specific products, it is important to keep in mind that the socks should fit properly.
To note, some patients respond to certain therapies while others do not. The best practice is for you to try and see what works for you! We hope with these suggestions in mind, you will be able to live a healthy life with minimal symptoms!
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