Neuropathy? Or is it?

By John Mina, D.P.M.

These days we hear more and more about neuropathy. People often attribute all their foot ailments to neuropathy: Burning, Tingling, Numbness, and Pain to name the most common but also loss of balance, swelling, and weakness. The truth is that many of these symptoms can indeed be caused by neuropathy. But frequently the problems are not cause by neuropathy but by inflamed nerves called neuritis.

First, let’s discuss what neuropathy actually is. Neuropathy is nerve damage, typically in the hands and feet that can be caused by many factors. Diabetes can be a major cause. For whatever reason, if the nerves in the feet and legs are deteriorating or damaged, they will not work the way that they are suppose to. The pain, burning, etc. can be extremely crippling and negatively affect a person’s life. Sadly, there are not really any effective cures for this although there are treatments available to reduce the symptoms. People are commonly of the belief that their problems are caused by neuropathy and nothing can be done.

The good news is that many patients’ pain, burning, etc. are only partially or not at all caused by neuropathy but are caused by neuritis or neuromas instead. These are irritated nerves that have become inflamed and enlarged. They are very treatable and can actually be cured. Usually it is not necessary to have them surgically removed.

Some testing is frequently recommended to confirm the diagnoses and rule out other problems. Once a doctor is able to determine that you have this condition, there are a number of treatments available which have high rates of success.

I have been treating this condition since the early 80’s and am usually able to make a big difference for my patients. Our goal is to relieve the pain as quickly as possible, help the patient to completely heal, and change the forces that caused it in the first place.

In conclusion, I’d like to give hope to anyone who has painful, burning, tingling, and/or numb feet. Don’t give up!

John Mina, DPM, ABPMS
Dr. Mina received a Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida and his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia. He joined Southwest Florida Ankle and Foot Care Specialists after 14 years of experience in private practice. Dr. Mina has extensive training and experience in peripheral neuropathy and specializes in minimum incision surgery.

Credentials
• Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
• Fellow, American Board of Multiple Specialties
in Podiatry
• Academy of Ambulatory Foot Surgery

Medical Education
• Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine

Professional Affiliations
• American Podiatric Medical Association
• Florida Podiatric Medical Association
• Lee County Podiatric Medical Association
• Southwest Florida Podiatry Society
• American Institute of Foot Medicine
• International College of Podiatric Laser Surgeons
• American Society of Podiatric Legal Medicine

Southwest Florida Ankle & Foot Care Specialists

www.aimsfl.com | 239-433-7433

16 locations throughout SWFL