What Is Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | DPM

Quick answer: Treatment for what is neuropathy what causes neuropathy symptoms treatment follows a stepwise approach: 1) conservative care first (rest, ice, supportive footwear, OTC anti-inflammatories), 2) physical therapy and targeted exercises, 3) in-office treatments (injections, custom orthotics) if conservative fails at 4-6 weeks, 4) surgery for refractory cases. Most patients resolve at step 1 or 2. Call (810) 206-1402.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy

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The most important clinical decision with What Is Neuropathy What Causes Neuropathy Symptoms Treatment isn’t which treatment to start with — it’s identifying the correct subtype. That changes everything. Call (810) 206-1402.

Quick Answer

What Is Neuropathy? What Causes Neuropathy [Symptoms & relates to foot neuropathy — typically caused by nerve compression or systemic. Most patients improve in varies by cause with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township: (810) 206-1402.

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✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026

What Is Neuropathy? For specialized treatment, see our neuropathy treatment Michigan. What Causes Neuropathy [Symptoms & Treatment]

What Is Neuropathy? What Causes Neuropathy [Symptoms & Treatment]

🦶What is neuropathy? What causes neuropathy? How long can you live with neuropathy & can you die from neuropathy in feet? We review all of these!🦶

Peripheral Neuropathy Videos:
Full Video:https://youtu.be/kMlcvn88Xcc
Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment: https://youtu.be/DoqjV9VR5tA
Diabetic Neuropathy: https://youtu.be/PiL2uQonrt0

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Neuropathy, also known as peripheral neuropathy, is a condition that involves damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves. The peripheral nerves are responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body, including the limbs, organs, and skin.

Neuropathy can affect one nerve (mononeuropathy) or multiple nerves (polyneuropathy) and can manifest in various ways depending on the nerves involved. The most common type of neuropathy is peripheral polyneuropathy, which typically affects the hands and feet.

Common symptoms of neuropathy include:

Tingling or numbness: Individuals may experience a sensation of “pins and needles” or numbness in the affected areas.

Burning or shooting pain: Some people with neuropathy may experience sharp, shooting pain or a constant burning sensation.

Muscle weakness: Weakness in the affected muscles, leading to difficulty with coordination or movements.

Loss of balance: Neuropathy can affect proprioception (the sense of body position), leading to problems with balance and an increased risk of falls.

Sensitivity to touch: Some individuals may become more sensitive to touch, experiencing pain or discomfort even with gentle pressure.

Neuropathy can have various underlying causes, including:

Diabetes: Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves over time.
Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Guillain-Barré syndrome can cause nerve damage.
Trauma or injury: Physical trauma, such as accidents or repetitive stress injuries, can lead to nerve damage.
Infections: Certain viral or bacterial infections, such as shingles, Lyme disease, or HIV, can affect the peripheral nerves.
Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins (such as B vitamins) and minerals (such as iron) can contribute to neuropathy.
Alcoholism: Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to nerve damage.
Medications and toxins: Certain medications, chemotherapy drugs, and exposure to toxins like heavy metals can cause neuropathy.

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DISCLAIMER:
Dr. Tomasz Biernacki received his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from Kent State College of Podiatric Medicine in 2013; he completed his Surgical Reconstructive Foot Surgery & Podiatric Medicine Residency in 2017; he completed 2x traveling Fellowships in Diabetic Surgery, Skin Grafting & Nerve Surgery. He is double board certified in Podiatric Medicine and Foot & Ankle Surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a licensed podiatrist & surgeon in Michigan. This video should not be used to self-diagnose and is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Biernacki and you. It would be best to not change your health regimen or diet before consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam & diagnosis. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care in Michigan: Balance Foot & Ankle

At Balance Foot & Ankle, Michigan patients find a podiatric practice dedicated to delivering exceptional clinical care for the full range of foot and ankle conditions. Our fellowship-trained podiatrists combine advanced surgical skills with a thorough conservative care approach — ensuring that patients receive the right treatment for their specific condition at the right stage of their diagnosis. We believe in transparent communication: patients leave every visit with a clear understanding of their diagnosis, the rationale for their treatment plan, and realistic expectations for recovery.


Related Treatment Guides

Our Howell office at 4330 E Grand River and Bloomfield Township office at 43494 Woodward Ave #208 are equipped with in-office digital X-ray, ultrasound for diagnostic imaging and guided procedures, and the full range of conservative and interventional podiatric technologies including MLS laser therapy and EPAT shockwave therapy. We accept all major Michigan insurance plans and verify coverage before every appointment. New patients throughout Livingston, Oakland, and surrounding counties are welcome — call Balance Foot & Ankle at (810) 206-1402 to schedule your first appointment today.


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When to See a Podiatrist

One unnoticed blister on a neuropathic foot can become a limb-threatening ulcer in under 14 days. Medicare covers diabetic shoes (A5500) and comprehensive foot exams annually for most diabetic patients with neuropathy or circulation concerns. Balance Foot & Ankle runs a dedicated diabetic limb-preservation program — vascular screening, offloading, ulcer care, and shoe fitting — all in one visit. Schedule your annual diabetic foot exam today.

Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402  ·  Book online  ·  Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Township

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

When conservative care isn’t enough, Dr. Tom Biernacki and the team at Balance Foot & Ankle offer advanced, same-day options — including Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment Michigan at our Howell and Bloomfield Township clinics.

Same-day appointments available. Call (810) 206-1402 or book online.

Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for diabetic foot care

Advantages

  • ✓ Daily inspection prevents amputation
  • ✓ Most insurance covers DME
  • ✓ Custom orthotics help

Considerations

  • ✗ Daily commitment required
  • ✗ Slow wound healing
  • ✗ Charcot risk if neuropathy

Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for diabetic foot care

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.

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Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?

Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.

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About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.

Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.

Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.

Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302

Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402

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Recommended Products for Peripheral Neuropathy
Products personally used and recommended by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. All available on Amazon.
Topical menthol and arnica formula that helps with neuropathic tingling and burning.
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Best for: Diabetic neuropathy, circulation support
Cushioned insole protects numb feet from pressure injuries.
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Dr. Tom's Neuropathy Care Kit
Our recommended daily care products for peripheral neuropathy management.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can a podiatrist help with neuropathy?
Yes. Podiatrists specialize in foot neuropathy management including nerve testing, diabetic foot monitoring, custom orthotics for protection, and therapies like MLS laser treatment to improve nerve function.
What does neuropathy in feet feel like?
Peripheral neuropathy typically causes tingling, numbness, burning, or sharp shooting pain in the feet. Symptoms often start in the toes and progress upward. Some patients describe it as walking on pins and needles.
Is foot neuropathy reversible?
It depends on the cause. Neuropathy from vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects may be reversible. Diabetic neuropathy is typically managed rather than reversed, but early treatment can slow progression and reduce symptoms significantly.

Recommended Products from Dr. Tom

More questions patients ask

What is neuropathy and what causes it?

Neuropathy refers to disease or damage of the peripheral nerves, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. The most common cause is diabetes, but other causes include vitamin B12 deficiency, alcohol use, kidney disease, thyroid problems, chemotherapy, and hereditary conditions. Balance Foot & Ankle evaluates neuropathy affecting the feet at our Howell and Bloomfield Township Michigan locations. Call (810) 206-1402.

What are the symptoms of neuropathy in the feet?

Neuropathy symptoms in the feet include: burning, tingling, or electric shock pain, numbness or loss of sensation, extreme sensitivity to touch, weakness in foot muscles, balance problems, and loss of reflexes. Symptoms are often worse at night. Balance Foot & Ankle at 4330 E Grand River, Howell and 43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Township assesses neuropathy severity with clinical testing.

How is neuropathy treated by a podiatrist?

Podiatric neuropathy treatment focuses on: protecting insensate feet from injury with custom orthotics and diabetic footwear, MLS laser therapy to reduce neuropathic pain and promote nerve healing, regular foot inspections to catch wounds early, and coordination with the managing physician for systemic treatment. Balance Foot & Ankle provides comprehensive neuropathy foot care.

Can neuropathy be reversed?

Some types of neuropathy — particularly those caused by nutritional deficiencies or medication toxicity — can partially or fully reverse with treatment. Diabetic neuropathy progression can be halted with excellent blood sugar control, and symptoms sometimes improve. Balance Foot & Ankle's MLS laser therapy shows clinical benefit for neuropathic pain reduction. Call (810) 206-1402.

What foot complications does neuropathy cause?

Neuropathy-related foot complications include: painless wounds that progress to ulcers, Charcot arthropathy (joint destruction from repeated unnoticed trauma), falls from balance problems, and severe infections from undetected injuries. Regular podiatric monitoring at Balance Foot & Ankle dramatically reduces neuropathy complication rates for patients throughout Michigan.

How often should diabetics check their feet?

Daily self-exams plus professional exams annually (or every 3-6 months for neuropathy/PAD patients). Dr. Biernacki provides comprehensive diabetic foot care programs.

Why do diabetics have foot problems?

Diabetes causes nerve damage, reduced blood flow, and impaired immunity. Injuries go unnoticed and heal slowly. ~15% of diabetics develop ulcers. Prevention through regular podiatric care is essential.

What are signs of diabetic neuropathy?

Tingling, burning, numbness starting in toes, sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, balance problems. Schedule evaluation at 810-206-1402 for nerve testing and management.

Still have a question about coverage or cost? Book online and we will check your benefits before your visit: Book in Howell · Book in Bloomfield Township. Prefer to talk it through first? Call (810) 206-1402.

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.