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Suggest Treatment For Symptoms Of Peripheral Neuropathy
Question: I have been suffering for a long time ( 2-3 years ) with burning in the soles of my feet and a sensation of puffiness throughout my foot and toes. At times, the burning is so intense that I have to use an ice pack to provide some relief. I have been taking Gabapentin for a long time (3X a day) and thought I was getting some relief from Cymbalta--although it was prescribed for a different issue.
I know that the easy answer is some degree of peripheral neuropathy. I do need to try to find some sort of mitigation as the pain and discomfort are distracting and make it difficult to even wear socks.
I am open to most solutions except for a nerve test which I heard is fairly painful. I am a modern-day version of the Cowardly Lion. Thanks for any input from your end.
I know that the easy answer is some degree of peripheral neuropathy. I do need to try to find some sort of mitigation as the pain and discomfort are distracting and make it difficult to even wear socks.
I am open to most solutions except for a nerve test which I heard is fairly painful. I am a modern-day version of the Cowardly Lion. Thanks for any input from your end.
Brief Answer:
Management of Peripheral Neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HealthcareMagic,
As you rightly said, your symptoms are suggestive of peripheral neuropathy. However, it is important to find out the cause of peripheral neuropathy like diabetes, vitamin b12 deficiency, hypothyroidism etc.
The physical and neurological examination can aid in the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy.Blood investigations to rule out conditions like diabetes, vitamin and thyroid deficiencies should also be done. Investigations like doppler studies to assess blood flow to the legs also need to be done.
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy involves management of the underlying condition.
You can take over the counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen (if not allergic). If that seems not to be working, more potent pain relievers like Oxycodone(Prescription drug) can be used.
You can continue taking Gabapentin and Cymbalta that helps with nerve pain. Other modalities of treatment like Acupuncture can also be done, which relieves the nerve pain in some individuals very effectively.
Your lower back issues can also contribute to the nerve pain. So it is important to undergo physical therapy and reduce weight. You can do low impact exercises like water aerobics.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for appropriate evaluation and management.
Hope this answers your question
Please feel free to address further questions here
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi
Management of Peripheral Neuropathy
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HealthcareMagic,
As you rightly said, your symptoms are suggestive of peripheral neuropathy. However, it is important to find out the cause of peripheral neuropathy like diabetes, vitamin b12 deficiency, hypothyroidism etc.
The physical and neurological examination can aid in the diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy.Blood investigations to rule out conditions like diabetes, vitamin and thyroid deficiencies should also be done. Investigations like doppler studies to assess blood flow to the legs also need to be done.
Treatment of peripheral neuropathy involves management of the underlying condition.
You can take over the counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen (if not allergic). If that seems not to be working, more potent pain relievers like Oxycodone(Prescription drug) can be used.
You can continue taking Gabapentin and Cymbalta that helps with nerve pain. Other modalities of treatment like Acupuncture can also be done, which relieves the nerve pain in some individuals very effectively.
Your lower back issues can also contribute to the nerve pain. So it is important to undergo physical therapy and reduce weight. You can do low impact exercises like water aerobics.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for appropriate evaluation and management.
Hope this answers your question
Please feel free to address further questions here
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
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