Boca Raton
(561) 488-4848
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment
Peripheral neuropathy diagnosis and treatment in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, with NCV/EMG testing, skin biopsy testing, and non-surgical care options.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that occurs outside the brain and spinal cord, most commonly affecting the feet and hands. At Family Foot Center in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, it’s one of the most frequent nerve conditions we evaluate.
Causes vary widely and can include diabetes, autoimmune conditions, infections, certain medications, chronic alcohol use, or vitamin deficiencies. In some cases, no clear cause is ever identified, which is referred to as idiopathic peripheral neuropathy.
What It Feels Like
How We Treat It
First we look for the cause, because fixing something like a vitamin deficiency or high blood sugar often helps more than treating symptoms alone. From there, we may add in-office treatments like Remy Laser or SoftWave, based on what your nerve testing shows.
How We Diagnose It
01
Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) and EMG studies to evaluate nerve signal function
02
Skin biopsy nerve-fiber testing for small-fiber nerve involvement
03
A review of medical history and lab work to help identify contributing causes
When to See a Podiatrist
New or worsening numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet that lasts more than a few weeks is worth having evaluated, particularly if it’s affecting your balance or you’ve noticed a cut or sore you didn’t feel happen.
It’s also worth a visit if your symptoms started after a new medication or neuropathy runs in your family.
Frequently asked questions
1Is peripheral neuropathy the same as diabetic neuropathy?
No. Peripheral neuropathy is a broad term for nerve damage outside the brain and spinal cord, most commonly affecting the feet and hands. Diabetic neuropathy is one specific type of peripheral neuropathy, caused by prolonged high blood sugar.
2Can peripheral neuropathy be cured?
Whether symptoms can be fully resolved depends heavily on the underlying cause. Some cases improve significantly once the cause is addressed, while others are managed on an ongoing basis; Dr. Pinsky can discuss realistic expectations once testing identifies what’s driving your symptoms.
3Is peripheral neuropathy permanent?
It depends on the cause and how early it’s addressed. Some peripheral neuropathy improves with treatment of the underlying condition, while other cases are chronic and focus on symptom management. This is best assessed individually.
4Can peripheral neuropathy affect only one foot?
Most peripheral neuropathy from systemic causes like diabetes affects both feet, often starting in the toes. Symptoms in only one foot can still occur and may point to a different cause, such as localized nerve compression, which is worth having evaluated.
5What's the difference between peripheral neuropathy and Morton's neuroma?
Peripheral neuropathy is typically a widespread nerve issue affecting sensation broadly in the feet, often from a systemic cause. Morton’s neuroma is localized thickening around a single nerve, usually between the third and fourth toes, causing sharp, focal forefoot pain.
6How much does peripheral neuropathy treatment cost?
Treatment cost depends on which combination of diagnostic testing and therapies is recommended for your case. Custom orthotics, when used as part of treatment, are $500; we’ll go over the cost of anything else before you start.
7When should I see a podiatrist versus a neurologist for tingling feet?
A podiatrist is a good starting point for foot and lower-leg symptoms, especially when footwear, gait, or localized nerve issues may be involved, and can coordinate with a neurologist or your primary care physician when a broader neurological workup is needed.