Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage in your hands and feet. The most common symptoms of nerve damage are burning, tingling, numbness, and weakness. There are many causes of neuropathy, including but not limited to, Diabetes, chemotherapy treatment, alcoholism, and spinal stenosis. Although there is no cure for neuropathy, the symptoms can be treated.
Prescription Medications:
- Gabapentin
- Lyrica
- Cymbalta
- Other
There are also other options for treatment of peripheral neuropathy…
Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause neuropathy. It can be supplemented with oral medicine, injections, or diet. Vitamin B12 can be found in red meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. NeuRemedy is a physician formulated medication that could be purchased in our office for treatment of neuropathy.
Capsaicin is a substance found in hot peppers. It has been formulated into a lotion that can be applied to the feet for relief of burning and other symptoms of neuropathy. Lidocaine patches can also be used topically to help relieve pain and symptoms of neuropathy.
Alpha-lipoic acid is also available in our office. This is specifically used in the treatment of Diabetic neuropathy. In Diabtic neuropathy, increased levels of blood sugar causes damage to the nerves. The alpha-lipoic acid helps with the metabolism of blood sugar, keeping it lower.
Diagnosis can be done in our office…
During your initial appointment, a comprehensive foot examination will be performed which includes tests for the nerves in your feet. We will evaluate the response of your nerve to vibration and light touch. If further testing is needed, you may require nerve functions tests, blood work, and possibly even nerve biopsy. At this time, we would also consider a referral to neurology.
For your nerve evaluation, call Hollowbrook Foot Specialists today at (201) 298-9074. We are serving the Hudson Valley from Wappingers Falls.
By: Samantha DelRegno D.P.M.
