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Neuropathy

Podiatrists & Foot and Ankle Surgeons located in Westbank, Marrero, LA
Neuropathy

Neuropathy services offered in Westbank, Marrero, LA


Up to 20 million Americans have some type of neuropathy (permanent nerve damage). At Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, in Marrero, Louisiana, board-certified podiatrists and foot and ankle surgeons, Catherine Hudson, DPM, Denise Elliott, DPM, and the team offer comprehensive care for peripheral neuropathy affecting the feet and ankles. Call Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, to request a neuropathy consultation, or book your appointment online. 

Neuropathy Q&A

What is neuropathy?

Neuropathy, or peripheral neuropathy, refers to nerve damage outside of your brain and spinal cord. It’s characterized by tingling, weakness, or pain in your legs and feet.

Your peripheral nervous system sends information from your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body, but if your nerves become damaged or diseased, it can affect your mobility and quality of life. 

What are the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy symptoms include:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Lack of coordination
  • Sharp, stabbing, throbbing, or burning pain
  • Gradual onset of numbness, tingling, or prickling in your feet or hands
  • Heat intolerance
  • Excessive sweating
  • Drops in blood pressure

As the condition worsens, you may have difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels.

Who is at risk of neuropathy?

Anyone can develop neuropathy, but several factors may increase your risk, including:

  • Alcohol misuse
  • A family history of neuropathy
  • Infections like Lyme disease or hepatitis C
  • Kidney, liver, or thyroid disorders
  • Exposure to toxins

Diabetes can also increase your risk of peripheral neuropathy.

Does neuropathy require medical care?

Make an appointment with the Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, team if you have any symptoms of neuropathy, like weakness, tingling, or numbness in your hands or feet. Early intervention and treatment can reduce your risk of complications and prevent further damage to your peripheral nerves.

How is peripheral neuropathy diagnosed?

Your Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical and neurological exam. 

They also order several diagnostics, including bloodwork to check for vitamin deficiencies, imaging tests to check for herniated discs or pinched nerves, and nerve function tests to look for nerve damage.

Your podiatrist uses the results of these tests to develop a personalized treatment plan.

How is peripheral neuropathy treated?

There’s no cure for neuropathy, but various treatments can relieve uncomfortable symptoms and prevent the damage from worsening. The Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, team may suggest:

  • Antidepressants to relieve pain
  • Anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling
  • Anti-seizure medications to prevent muscle spasms
  • Topical treatments
  • Physical therapy
  • Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Call Foot and Ankle Center, LLC, today to explore the treatment options for peripheral neuropathy, or book your appointment online.