Peripheral Nerve Compression: The Pinch That Hurts

With diabetes rates so high, peripheral nerve compression is a problem that many people currently worry about. That tingly feeling can range from a slight annoyance to an inability to use your body parts the way they were intended. When it strikes your feet, it can lead to pain and numbness, along with more serious complications.
There are several reasons other than diabetes why a person can suffer nerve damage. Trauma, injury, and overuse are also causes of this condition. One of the most common cases of overuse is called carpal tunnel syndrome, and it occurs in the wrist, often as a result of typing. A similar problem in the foot, called tarsal tunnel syndrome, occurs when the tibial nerve is compressed.

The peroneal nerve is responsible for foot and leg function, so when it becomes damaged it can lead to all kinds of gait problems. One of these conditions is called foot drop. It is characterized by the inability to lift the front of your foot when you take a step. This results in a high-stepping walk as well as pain, numbness, and weakness.
Typically, treatment for peripheral nerve compression is more on the conservative side if the case isn’t too severe. A custom orthotic used in your shoe could be all that is needed to help. Sometimes physical therapy for gait training is also needed. However, surgery can also be an option, and there are several different kinds—most of them outpatient procedures.

If you have any questions or concerns about numbness in your feet and ankles and want to get some answers, call Dr. Marco Vargas and Dr. Joyce Lee at 888-784-5335 to book an appointment at our Houston or Sugar Land offices. At Foot and Ankle Associates we are prepared and equipped to deal with all things feet, and we want to get yours healthy again.