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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Numbness In The Balls Of The Feet?

My my husband is experiencing numbness in the balls of his feet and we do not know why. He is 62 years old and has high triglycerides, cholesterol and mild high blood pressure...no diabetes. Can you refer us to any information regarding why he might have this numbness and what to do to prevent it, if possible? We are more interested in root cause than symptomatic relief with medication unless that is the only option. His email is YYYY@YYYY . His name is Gary. Thank you in advance, Mary
Mon, 10 Sep 2018
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Diabetologist,  's  Response
Hi,

These are highly suggestive of what we call a small fibre neuropathy. The other less likely cause is a specific problem in a specific nerve or a back-related condition called radiculopathy.


These latter 2 conditions are less likely. I think this is small fibre neuropathy and it is likely triggered by dyslipidemia (cholesterols). I would suggest a good control of blood pressure and lipids.

Your message does not suggest the exact reports and medications given or being taken. So please let me know the details so that I can suggest an appropriate treatment or alteration in the treatment.
As for the symptomatic relief, you can try pregabalin medicine. Testing with a Nerve Conduction Study, followed by an MRI of the spine and then, if needed, a nerve biopsy may be helpful.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.



Regards,

Dr. Saumya Mittal ,

Diabetologist
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What Causes Numbness In The Balls Of The Feet?

Hi, These are highly suggestive of what we call a small fibre neuropathy. The other less likely cause is a specific problem in a specific nerve or a back-related condition called radiculopathy. These latter 2 conditions are less likely. I think this is small fibre neuropathy and it is likely triggered by dyslipidemia (cholesterols). I would suggest a good control of blood pressure and lipids. Your message does not suggest the exact reports and medications given or being taken. So please let me know the details so that I can suggest an appropriate treatment or alteration in the treatment. As for the symptomatic relief, you can try pregabalin medicine. Testing with a Nerve Conduction Study, followed by an MRI of the spine and then, if needed, a nerve biopsy may be helpful. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Saumya Mittal , Diabetologist