5 Telltale Signs of Neuropathy to Watch For

Peripheral neuropathy develops when nerve tissue in your arms and legs becomes damaged. These nerves communicate sensory data between your body and brain, and are a necessary component to healthy living. 

Peripheral neuropathy commonly affects the lower extremities, including your feet. At Capital Podiatry Associates, we’ve helped numerous residents of Alexandria, Virginia, manage peripheral neuropathy and return to healthier, more active lives. 

Below, we discuss five telltale signs of peripheral neuropathy. Knowing what to look for is key to taking action as soon as possible. 

1. Burning or freezing sensations

Because neuropathy damages your nerve tissue, pain signals can become scrambled. Some say it feels like their skin is being exposed to excessively hot or cold temperatures. 

2. Sensitivity to touch

While many people don’t like having their feet touched or tickled, sensitivity to normal, everyday physical contact can be a red flag.

For instance, some people report being unable to stand wearing their socks or shoes. Others say it feels like they are wearing socks all the time, even when they’re barefoot. You might experience unusual sensitivity on the soles of your feet or even when toweling off after a shower. 

3. Numbness or lack of sensation

Neuropathy reduces your ability to feel things, so a lack of sensation is a cause for concern. It can also be dangerous: For example, you could step on something sharp or develop a sore or blister and have no idea. 

Once neuropathy develops, performing daily foot inspections becomes critical to reducing your risk of further harm. 

4. Loss of coordination

Your nerves not only send pain signals to your brain, but they also help maintain your balance and coordination. 

If you start to stumble often or become unusually uncoordinated, neuropathy may be interfering with your balance and agility. 

5. Feeling pain for no reason

If your feet hurt with no clear cause, it could be a problem with the transmission of pain signals between your feet and your brain. 

Pay close attention if you experience pain when doing things that normally aren’t painful, like washing your feet, putting on your shoes, or rubbing your feet against your bedding at night. 

Don’t ignore changes in the way your feet feel

Occasional foot pain is part of life, especially after a long day on your feet or when breaking in a new pair of shoes. But if you experience any of the changes outlined above, be sure to seek help. 

Left untreated, peripheral neuropathy can threaten your foot health and lead to serious outcomes, the most extreme of which is amputation. A diagnostic assessment is the best way to get to the bottom of unusual foot sensations. 

Our team at Capital Podiatry Associates is ready to provide the care you need to thrive. Call to schedule an appointment to discuss your concerns or book your visit online.