Peripheral Neuropathy Diagnosis and Management Options

If you’ve been feeling tingling, numbness, or burning pain in your feet or toes, you might be experiencing Peripheral Neuropathy—a condition that affects millions of Americans and can seriously impact your comfort and mobility.

At Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates, we specialize in diagnosing and managing Peripheral Neuropathy to help patients regain function, reduce discomfort, and maintain a better quality of life. With convenient offices in Boise, Nampa/Caldwell, and Meridian, ID, our experienced podiatrists are here to help you find answers and relief.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy refers to nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system—most often in the hands and feet. It can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Diabetes (the most common cause)
• Chronic alcohol use
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Chemotherapy or certain medications
• Autoimmune conditions
• Trauma or repetitive stress injuries

While some cases are reversible, many are chronic and require long-term management.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Peripheral neuropathy symptoms often develop gradually, and may include:

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the feet
• Numbness that begins in the toes and spreads upward
• Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain
• Sensitivity to touch
• Muscle weakness or instability when walking
• Loss of balance, especially in the dark or barefoot

If left untreated, neuropathy can progress and increase the risk of falls, ulcers, and infections—especially in patients with diabetes.

How We Diagnose Peripheral Neuropathy

At Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates, we use a combination of clinical exams and diagnostic testing to evaluate nerve function and rule out other causes of foot discomfort. Diagnosis may include:

• Physical and neurological exams
• Review of medical history and lifestyle factors
• Nerve conduction studies or EMG (electromyography)
• Blood tests to check for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune conditions

Management and Treatment Options

While nerve damage isn’t always reversible, there are many ways to slow progression and manage symptoms. Our treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:

• Medications to reduce nerve pain or improve nerve function
• Custom orthotics for added support and balance
• Topical treatments for localized pain relief
• Physical therapy to improve strength and coordination
• Lifestyle modifications, including nutrition and foot care routines
• Diabetic foot care to prevent serious complications

Early intervention is key. The sooner Peripheral Neuropathy is diagnosed, the more effective your treatment plan will be.

Expert Foot and Nerve Care in the Treasure Valley

If you're experiencing symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy, don't wait. The team at Idaho Foot and Ankle Associates is here to help you understand what's happening and how to manage it—so you can stay active, safe, and pain-free.

Boise Office – Call (208) 327-0627
Nampa/Caldwell Office – Call (208) 463-1660
Meridian Office – Call (208) 888-9876

Get the answers—and the support—you need for Peripheral Neuropathy, right here in Idaho.