08/06/2025
Neuropathy - Nerve damage
Neuropathy in the feet, also known as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that occurs when the nerves in the feet are damaged, preventing signals from being sent between the central and peripheral nervous systems.
Symptoms include:
Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes in the feet
A burning or sharp pain in the feet
Tingling or pins and needles in the feet
Loss of balance or coordination
Muscle weakness
Serious foot issues like ulcers, infections, or bone and joint damage
Peripheral neuropathy can have many causes, including:
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage nerves
Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can cause nerve damage
Infections: Viral infections can damage nerves
Vitamin B12 deficiency: Can damage nerves
Injury or trauma: Direct trauma to the nerves or damage to the spine can cause peripheral neuropathy
Autoimmune diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Sjögrens syndrome, and Guillain-Barré syndrome can all cause peripheral neuropathy