Condition Guide
Peripheral Neuropathy
Expert evaluation and care for nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and lower legs.
01Overview
Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves - the vast network of nerves that transmit signals between the brain and spinal cord and the rest of the body, including the feet and lower legs. When these nerves are damaged, they may send abnormal signals, fail to transmit sensation properly, or lose the ability to control muscle function. In podiatric medicine, peripheral neuropathy is one of the most consequential conditions we manage because loss of protective sensation in the feet dramatically increases the risk of undetected injuries, ulceration, infection, and ultimately limb loss. Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause, but neuropathy has many causes, and identifying the underlying etiology is essential for appropriate treatment. Dr. Golan performs comprehensive neurological foot evaluations and coordinates care to reduce the risk of complications.
02Causes & Etiology
The most common cause of peripheral neuropathy seen in podiatric practice is diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a complication of longstanding elevated blood glucose that damages the small nerve fibers responsible for sensation and autonomic function. Other metabolic causes include vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is increasingly common as cancer survivorship improves. Alcohol use disorder damages nerves through direct toxic effects and associated nutritional deficiencies. Idiopathic neuropathy - where no cause is identified despite thorough workup - accounts for a significant proportion of cases in older adults. Tarsal tunnel syndrome and other nerve entrapments can mimic or coexist with systemic neuropathy.
Risk Factors
- Diabetes mellitus (especially poorly controlled or longstanding)
- Prediabetes and metabolic syndrome
- Vitamin B12 or other nutritional deficiencies
- Chemotherapy treatment (particularly taxanes and platinum-based agents)
- Chronic alcohol use
- Kidney disease or chronic renal failure
- Hypothyroidism or other endocrine disorders
- Family history of hereditary neuropathy
03Signs & Symptoms
- Numbness, tingling, or 'pins and needles' sensation in the feet and toes
- Burning, stabbing, or electric shock-like pain - often worse at night
- Feeling of walking on sand, pebbles, or wearing socks when barefoot
- Loss of protective sensation - unable to feel heat, cold, or sharp objects
- Muscle weakness or difficulty lifting the front of the foot (foot drop)
- Loss of balance and coordination, increased fall risk
- Wounds or injuries on the feet that go unnoticed due to absent sensation
- Dry, cracked skin on the feet due to autonomic nerve involvement
When to See Dr. Golan
Any diabetic patient should have a comprehensive foot exam at least annually - more frequently if neuropathy symptoms are present. If you notice numbness, tingling, burning, or any change in sensation in your feet, schedule an evaluation promptly. Equally important: if you have neuropathy and discover a wound on your foot - no matter how small - seek immediate care. Neuropathic wounds can escalate rapidly and early intervention is critical to preventing serious complications.
04Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to find relief?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Golan and get a personalized treatment plan.
Book an AppointmentFrom Our Blog
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Near You
Select your community for local context, city-specific FAQs, and drive times to our Grandview Heights office.
Patient Resources