Wouldn’t it be great if there was a magic pill that would make peripheral neuropathy of the feet go away? Unfortunately, a magic cure hasn’t been developed yet, but by following these tips, you can reduce its severe effects.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves which carry signals to and from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Peripheral neuropathy can affect a single nerve, a group of nerves or nerves throughout the whole body. However, it typically affects the hands and feet.
Peripheral neuropathy can progress slowly over many years. It may come and go. Or, it can become severe and debilitating.
There are many different causes of neuropathy, including: diabetes, autoimmune disorders, heredity, chronic kidney disease, an underactive thyroid gland, nutritional issues, infections, alcohol abuse, certain medications, or exposure to toxins. In about 30% of cases, no cause can be found.
Symptoms in the arms and legs include: tingling or burning sensation, numbness, weakness, muscular twitching or cramping, poor muscle control, or deep pain.
Tips for Living with Neuropathy of the Feet
Living with peripheral neuropathy can be a challenge in your daily life. While there is no magic pill to cure your foot pain, there are several things you can do obtain pain relief as much as possible.
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood glucose within your target range.
- Stay active to keep your muscles from becoming stiffer and more painful. Perform exercises to maintain muscle strength and control. However, avoid putting too much pressure on your nerve-damaged feet for too long.
- Follow a healthy diet that’s low in fat and full of fiber – including fruits and vegetables – to reduce painful flare-ups.
- Reduce the risk of falls in your home. Install handrails and good lighting. Remove loose wires and rugs. Fix uneven flooring. Put a slip-proof mat in your shower or bathtub.
Check your feet daily for redness, cuts, blisters, ingrown toenails or infections – including the tops, bottoms, sides and in between the toes. If you have trouble seeing your feet, have someone check them for you. Treat your feet immediately at the first sign of any trouble.- Wash your feet daily with soap and lukewarm water, drying your feet thoroughly – especially between the toes.
- Apply a thin layer of lotion to your feet if your skin is dry. However, don’t apply lotion between your toes since this may cause an infection.
- Take medications to relieve the pain, as prescribed by your doctor. Or ask your doctor to refer you to a pain specialist to help you learn ways to cope with your pain.
- Wear shoes and socks at all times, even around the house, to protect your feet from injury. However, don’t wear socks that irritate your feet or are too tight.
- Make sure your shoes fit properly, providing room for circulation. They should cushion your feet and feel comfortable. Refer to our Shoe Fit Guidelines for more information. Always check the insides of your shoes to make sure there aren’t any stones, nails or rough edges that can hurt your feet.
- Ask your doctor about wearing custom orthotics, like ezWalker® Performance Insoles. For people suffering with neuropathy, a custom orthotic with accommodating support is recommended. ezWalker® insoles with accommodative support are designed to meet the specific needs of your feet. They can reduce the pressure on your feet and prevent excess friction which can lead to skin ulcers. ezWalker® insoles provide your feet with better protection by guiding them into a more desirable biomechanic position to improve or control abnormal foot function; reduce shear forces on your feet; redistribute pressure; reduce the progression of foot deformities; and relieve foot pain. Also, talk to your doctor about other footwear considerations, such as custom or extra-depth shoes.
For more information on ezWalker® Performance Insoles with accommodating support, visit our website. These insoles are ultra thin and ¾ in length, so they transfer easily from shoe to shoe – saving you money. Also, we offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose but your foot pain. Try them today!
Note: If you follow these guidelines and your pain or foot problems persist, you may have a more serious condition. See your physician for a more complete diagnosis and treatment.
