Your body tells you when something is wrong. For instance, while some nerve pain is idiopathic--that is, there's no identifiable reason for it-
-most neuropathy comes from real problems with your physiology or anatomy. Nerve pain in the feet, for instance, can originate with diabetes or in compression of the nerves. At Podiatric Associates of Houston, Dr. David Blumfield, Dr. Michael Mineo, Dr. Jorge Matuk and Dr. Maria Buitrago offer nerve pain treatments that help patients maintain normal function and lifestyles. Learn more here about this common condition that affects millions of Americans.
What's nerve pain like?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that up to 20 million people have nerve pain, particularly in their hands and feet. They experience:
- Shooting pains
- Numbness
- Tingling and prickliness
- A crushing sensation
- Weakness
Unfortunately, numbness often gives rise to more serious problems, such as diabetic foot ulcers, because the brain is not receiving the message that something is wrong in an extremity. So if someone notices any of the above symptoms in their feet, he or she should call Dr. Blumfield for nerve pain treatment in Houston.
What causes nerve pain?
Injury, congenital malformation and the changes associated with simple aging cause neuropathy. However, nerve pain can be based in physiology gone awry with conditions such as:
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Deficiency of Vitamin E and some B vitamins
- Decreased kidney function
What can your podiatrist do?
Dr. Blumfield or one of the other highly qualified podiatrists at Podiatry Associates of Houston will visually inspect your feet, watch you walk and possibly order diagnostic imaging and lab tests. These strategies add valuable objective information to your symptoms so the doctor understands what is happening and how to treat it.
Possible nerve pain treatments in Houston include:
- Topical ointments and creams
- TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)
- Massage
- Injected anesthetics
While these treatments may be necessary for some nerve pain patients, others do well with modifying their lifestyles, incorporating healthier diets (lower in sugars and carbs) and more exercise. Just moving, instead of being sedentary, is good for your musculature, connective tissue and nerves. Even the simplest of exercises, such as walking, increases peripheral circulation and a built-in pain manager--body chemicals called endorphins.
If you have nerve pain or think you do...
Don't wait. The team at Podiatry Associates of Houston asks you to call for an appointment so one of the expert staff podiatrists can check your symptoms and determine a course of action. Please call the office nearest you.
In Chimney Rock, call (713) 666-0287. In Memorial City, phone (713) 467-1299. In Katy, call (281) 579-0186, and in Willowbrook, phone (832) 912-7792.