If your doctor suspects that you may have a form of peripheral neuropathy, he or she may refer you to a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in nerve diseases. It may take some time to figure out where the concern originates. If you are wondering what type of doctor you should contact, you can start with your primary care physician. They can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to the appropriate specialist if needed.
Electromyography (EMG) records electrical activity in muscles to detect nerve damage. A thin needle (electrode) is inserted into the muscle to measure electrical activity as the muscle contracts. Everyone with symptoms of peripheral neuropathy of the feet should consult a podiatrist. Podiatrists are doctors who are specially trained to preserve the health of the feet.
There are more than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy. NYU Langone neurologists are experienced in diagnosing the condition, as well as any underlying medical problems, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or nutrient imbalances, that can cause symptoms of neuropathy. You may wonder if your doctor is the best option for treating neuropathy. While neurologists are the most obvious choice for treating peripheral neuropathy, you may feel like you've exhausted your treatment options with a neurologist and want to try something different.
Chiropractors who specialize in treating neuropathy provide natural and effective treatment options that don't require medication and can still manage pain. Did you know that diabetes is the leading cause of neuropathy in the United States? About 60 to 70% of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nerve damage. Nerve damage causes symptoms such as tingling, burning feet, pain, and numbness. If you have diabetic neuropathy, it is strongly recommended to see a podiatrist who knows about diabetic foot.
Here are 5 questions to ask your podiatrist. To learn more about peripheral nerve damage or to get help with symptoms of neuropathy, find a neurologist. Treatment of foot neuropathy is aimed at relieving pain and restoring sensitivity to improve the function and quality of life of the patient. It's very important to find a peripheral neuropathy treatment that works for you to get back to doing so many things you used to do without foot pain.
If the cause of foot neuropathy is known, treatment of the underlying cause may provide relief.
