Foot pain can come from a variety of issues, most of which may not be a reason to worry. However, there are other occasions is which your foot pain can be a cause for concern, especially if you may be suffering from nerve related foot pain.
When nerves are irritated or damaged, you can experience a burning sensation, a shooting or stabbing pain while walking or at rest, as well as a specific area on the foot that hurts when pressure is applied.
If you are suffering from any of the above, there are several nerve related foot issues that can the reason, including the following:
Mortons Neuroma- This is a pain in the nerve that runs between the third and fourth toe, which can cause a burning or shooting sensation, as well as create a feeling of pressure beneath the toes. This condition is more commonly found in women, which could be due to wearing high heels. Treatments for Mortons neuroma can include wearing better fitting shoes, arch supports, as well as cortisone injections to decrease inflammation.
Pinched Nerve- This can occur in different areas of the foot, often caused by a trauma of some sort, swelling, or pressure from tight fitting shoes. This can cause a shooting or burning pain, as well as sensitivity on the top of the foot. Treatment for a pinched nerve may include cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory drugs, padding the shoe in areas where the foot is being compressed, or the use of orthotics.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy- Many diabetics will find themselves suffering from this condition, especially when their blood glucose levels are chronically high. This may cause spontaneous burning or shooting pain in the feet, which most often occurs at night, and may be accompanied by a gradual loss of feeling in the toes and the feet, often progressing upward. Treatments for diabetic peripheral neuropathy often include controlling blood sugar levels, the use of antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs, as well as vitamins and supplements, such as B vitamins and alpha lipoic acid.
Other Nerve Injuries- There are a variety of other reasons why you may be suffering from nerve issues. Accidents and traumas, complications during surgeries, as well as liver and kidney diseases can be the cause of nerve injuries. Cancer drugs, vitamin deficiencies, and infectious disease can also contribute to nerve related issues.
The best way to determine the reason you are suffering from nerve related foot pain is to see your podiatrist as soon as possible. For help with your foot and ankle pain, or for more information, contact the Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois today.
