Foot neuropathy: how to manage symptoms through lifestyle?

Instructions

Neuralgia in the foot is a common pain symptom that affects people's lives and work. It is caused by a series of nerve compression or damage, and the symptoms are usually severe pain, itching, numbness, tingling, etc. Next, we will introduce to you what causes neuralgia in the foot and tell you how to relieve this rare pain symptom.

What Causes Foot Neuropathy?

1. Herniated disc: When a part of the intervertebral disc is too close to a nerve, it can cause compression of the nerve, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. This is most common with a herniated disc in the lower back or neck.

2.  Flat feet: Flat feet are a common foot deformity that can cause muscle fatigue and nerve compression in the foot, especially when bearing weight for a long time.

3. Sports injuries: Excessive exercise, extreme exercise, or high-intensity exercise can cause nerve damage, which in turn causes symptoms of foot nerve pain. For example, long periods of jogging or weight training can easily cause nerve compression or damage.

4. Diabetes: Diabetes is a common chronic disease that can cause nerve damage, affecting not only the feet, but also nerves and organs throughout the body. If you have diabetes, you need to pay special attention to the symptoms of foot nerve pain.

5. Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves in the body's limbs are damaged. Symptoms of neuropathy can vary depending on the nerves affected and the severity of the condition.

The above are just a few of the causes of nerve pain in the feet. In fact, there are many other causes, such as degenerative arthritis, tumors, and organic damage.

Initial Symptoms of Foot Neuropathy

Foot neuropathy often develops gradually, and symptoms can vary depending on the severity of nerve damage. Early signs of foot neuropathy include:

1. Numbness and Tingling: "Pins and needles" or loss of feeling in the feet.

2. Pain: Burning, sharp, or stabbing pain, often worse at night.

3. Sensitivity to Touch: Feet may become overly sensitive to touch or pressure from shoes.

4. Muscle Weakness: Difficulty walking or instability due to weakened muscles.

5. Loss of Balance: Problems with coordination, especially when walking or standing.

These symptoms usually start in the toes and may spread up to the ankles and legs. If untreated, neuropathy can lead to more serious issues like foot deformities, ulcers, or infections, particularly in people with diabetes.

Ways to treat nerve pain at home

Now that you know what causes nerve pain in the feet and are familiar with the symptoms, let's explore the best ways to treat the pain at home. In most cases, at-home treatment focuses on relieving pain and protecting the affected foot from further damage.

1. Soak in warm water and Epsom salts

Soaking in Epsom salts can help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by nerve pain. Soaking for 20 minutes every day can help improve symptoms. The magnesium sulfate in the salts helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.

2. Compression stockings/Neuropathy stockings

Compression stockings relieve nerve pain in the feet by providing pressure and support to the foot. This helps reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby relieving pain. In addition, compression stockings can help improve blood circulation in the foot, which can also help relieve pain.

3. Rest

Take frequent breaks from walking, standing, or other activities that put stress on your feet. When you stand for long periods of time, your feet are put under a lot of pressure and strain, which can make pain worse. Taking breaks and resting your feet can help relieve pain and give your body a chance to heal. Also, when you rest, your body has a chance to repair the nerves.

4. Ice for pain

Ice packs are a common treatment for nerve pain in the feet. They work by numbing the area and reducing inflammation. Ice packs are usually used to treat acute pain, but they can also help relieve chronic pain. Place an ice pack in a towel and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes.

5. Check your feet daily

People with diabetes should check their feet daily for cuts, wounds, and infections. Diabetes can cause nerve damage and reduce blood flow to the feet. It may be difficult for them to notice if they have an injury. Checking their feet regularly can help prevent the problem from getting worse.

6. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol can negatively affect the body's absorption of several important vitamins and minerals. It alters some of the nutrients, such as thiamine, folate, and vitamins B6 and B12, that contribute to normal nerve transmission. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, further exacerbating the condition.

These nutrients also contribute to the production of myelin, which protects nerves from damage.

7. Anesthetic Lidocaine

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic used to numb the skin or surface of the body. It works by blocking nerves that send pain signals to the brain.

When applied to the feet, lidocaine can help relieve nerve pain. The anesthetic effects of lidocaine can last up to an hour, making it a useful tool for pain management.

8. Massage Your Feet

Massaging your feet can relieve nerve pain by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Massaging your feet can also help release tight muscles and relieve tension.

Conclusion

Foot neuropathy can be challenging, but with early diagnosis and proper management, symptoms can be improved. Managing underlying conditions, relieving pain, maintaining foot care, and adopting healthy lifestyle changes are key to preventing further nerve damage. With the right care, individuals with foot neuropathy can reduce symptoms, regain function, and lead an active, fulfilling life.