Have you ever felt a strange tingling in your feet that won’t go away? Or maybe your toes feel numb? These odd sensations might seem harmless at first, but they could be early signs of peripheral neuropathy—a condition that affects the nerves in your feet. Many people ignore these symptoms until they start interfering with daily life, like walking, driving, or even sleeping. The good news? Catching it early can make a big difference in how you feel and how well you move.
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves in your feet become damaged, often causing symptoms like:
-
Tingling, burning, or “pins and needles” sensation
-
Numbness or loss of feeling
-
Sharp, stabbing, or shooting pain
-
Muscle weakness or difficulty walking
-
Increased sensitivity to touch
-
Balance problems or feeling like you're walking on cotton
These symptoms can start out mild but may worsen over time if left untreated. One of the most common causes is diabetes, but neuropathy can also be related to poor circulation, injuries, certain medications, or vitamin deficiencies.
You should see a podiatrist if:
-
You notice numbness, tingling, or pain in your feet that doesn’t go away
-
You're having trouble with balance or walking
-
You have diabetes and have never had a foot exam—or it’s been over a year
-
You’re experiencing wounds or sores that aren’t healing
If you have neuropathy or can’t feel your feet well, it’s important to inspect your feet daily. When you lose sensation, small problems—like a blister, cut, or sore—can go unnoticed and quickly turn into serious wounds or infections. By taking a few moments each day to look at the bottom of your feet and between your toes, you can spot issues early. It’s also essential to see a podiatrist at least once a year if you have diabetes or neuropathy. Regular foot exams help catch concerns before they become major complications and keep your feet as healthy as possible.
At our office, we offer thorough foot exams and advanced therapies that go beyond just managing symptoms. Early intervention can help slow the progression of nerve damage and improve your quality of life.