Millions of people across the country are dealing with uncomfortable and debilitating peripheral neuropathy. If you’re one of them, it may feel like there is nothing that can be done to help the irritating numbness, burning, and pain in your legs and feet. Figuring out a way to manage the pain can become a daily challenge that can consume your thoughts and time.
Arrowhead Health Centers offers an extensive Peripheral Neuropathy Program that specializes in management of your condition. Our team of specialists, physicians, and therapists work together to ensure patients receive the best comprehensive treatment available. We hope that, if you find yourself suffering from this debilitating condition, you’ll take the time to schedule an appointment with us so we can discuss your options with you.
In the meantime, and even while you’re going through our treatment plan, there are some things you can do to help make the pain bearable. We often try to share these ideas with you here on our blog.
One important step you take is to make sure you’re using the right footwear. This can make a huge difference in preventing unnecessary discomfort. When it comes to footwear and peripheral neuropathy, here are a few tips we think that are important to remember:
- Be sure to take care of your feet. It’s important that you pay close attention and watch for signs of blisters or calluses. These can add to the tingling and burning sensation you experience.
- Wear soft and comfortable socks. The right kinds of socks have shown to help eliminate burning sensations and control the overall foot discomfort that those with peripheral neuropathy experience. Some people even wear these types of socks to bed to keep their feet warm and to prevent irritating contact with bed sheets.
- Choose shoes with soft linings. Again, the idea here is to do anything you can to help avoid the burning sensation you might be feeling throughout the day. There are specially designed shoes for peripheral neuropathy that come with extra cushioned soles and a wider toe box.
- Arch support is key. When shoes come with an arch support that offers good shock absorption, it will take the pressure off of your feet and reduce the pain.
- Make sure your shoes fit well. Shoes that aren’t able to accommodate for swelling are not going to be comfortable. When you’re trying on shoes, be sure you take a few minutes to walk around in them. Pay attention to the insoles and cushion. With peripheral neuropathy, every detail makes a difference.
- Find custom solutions. In most cases, it’s a good idea to work with an expert who can help fit you with the best type of shoes and the right size. There are pedorthists and podiatrists out there who can help you get into a pair of shoes that will make a huge difference in the pain you feel.