Symptoms of neuropathy in the feet
- Numbness, or feet that feel like they're wrapped in cotton
- Tingling or pins and needles
- Burning, especially at night
- Sharp or electric pains
- Poor balance or unsteadiness
- Not noticing blisters, cuts, or a stone in your shoe
Common causes
Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy (see diabetic neuropathy). Others include low vitamin B12, thyroid disease, heavy alcohol use, some medications including chemotherapy, and nerve compression. Sometimes no cause is found.
What the visit includes
- Review of your symptoms, health history, and medications
- Hands-on testing of light touch, vibration, and protective sensation
- Circulation check, including the pulses in your feet
- Skin, nail, and footwear check for pressure spots and early problems
- A plan for treating symptoms and protecting your feet, and what to discuss with your primary care doctor
Protecting numb feet
- Look at your feet every day, including between the toes
- Don't walk barefoot, even at home
- Check bath water with your elbow, not your foot
- Wear shoes that fit, and check inside them before putting them on
- Moisturize dry skin, but not between the toes
Don't wait on a wound. If you have neuropathy and notice a wound, blister, redness, warmth, or swelling, get it seen promptly. For spreading redness, fever, or a foot that turns cold or dark, go to urgent care or an emergency department.