Neuropathy Treatment in Twin Falls, ID

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord become damaged. In the feet, this often leads to:

• Numbness in the toes or ball of the foot
• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations
• Burning foot pain (often worse at night)
• Shooting or electric-like pain
• Loss of temperature sensitivity
• Balance problems

Because the feet are farthest from the central nervous system, they are commonly affected first.

What Causes Neuropathy in the Feet?

The most common cause is diabetes, known as diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar damages nerves over time.

Other causes include:

• Poor circulation
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Alcohol-related nerve damage
• Certain medications
• Autoimmune disorders
• Nerve compression or trauma

Learn more about circulation risks: Why poor circulation places feet in danger

Why Neuropathy in the Feet Is Dangerous

Neuropathy reduces your ability to feel injuries. Small problems can become serious without you noticing.

This increases the risk of:

• Foot ulcers
• Infections
• Skin breakdown
• Delayed wound healing
• Amputation in severe diabetic cases

If you have diabetes, preventive care is critical. See: Diabetic foot care in Twin Falls

How Neuropathy Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis includes a detailed symptom review and foot examination.

Your podiatrist may perform:

• Sensation testing to detect numbness
• Skin inspection for pressure points and wounds
• Circulation assessment
• Footwear evaluation

Early diagnosis helps prevent ulcers and long-term complications.

Neuropathy Treatment Options

Treatment focuses on relieving pain and preventing complications.

1. Protecting the Feet

• Routine professional callus care
• Pressure reduction techniques
• Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure
• Proper diabetic footwear recommendations

2. Pain Management

• MLS Laser Therapy for select neuropathic pain cases
• Coordination with primary care for systemic management

3. Wound Prevention and Care

If neuropathy has already led to skin breakdown, advanced wound care is essential.

• Diabetic wound treatment
• UltraMist wound therapy

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

Schedule an evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent numbness or tingling
• Burning pain in the feet
• A blister, sore, or cut that is not healing
• Redness, swelling, or drainage
• Sudden changes in foot color

Early treatment prevents serious complications.

Neuropathy FAQ

Is neuropathy reversible?

Some cases improve when the underlying cause is treated. However, long-term nerve damage may not fully reverse. Early management improves outcomes.

Is neuropathy always caused by diabetes?

No. Diabetes is the most common cause, but circulation problems, vitamin deficiencies, and other medical conditions can also cause nerve damage.

Can neuropathy lead to amputation?

In severe diabetic cases with untreated ulcers and infection, amputation is possible. Preventive foot care dramatically lowers this risk.

Does laser therapy help neuropathy?

Laser therapy may reduce inflammation and pain in select patients. It is part of a broader foot protection and management plan.