06/05/2026
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Neuropathy: It Is Not Just About Diabetes
When many people hear the word neuropathy, they immediately think of diabetes. While diabetes is a common cause, neuropathy can affect anyone and can occur for many different reasons.
Neuropathy is damage or dysfunction of the nerves, most commonly affecting the feet and lower legs. Nerves are responsible for sensation, movement, temperature awareness, balance, and even communication between your body and brain. When nerves become damaged, those signals may become altered, delayed, or stop working properly.
Symptoms of neuropathy may include:
• Burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensations
• Numbness or reduced feeling in the feet
• Sharp, stabbing, aching, or electric shock-like pain
• Increased sensitivity to touch
• Muscle weakness or balance problems
• Difficulty sensing temperature, pressure, or injury
Neuropathy is not a diagnosis itself — it is often a symptom of another underlying condition.
Conditions and factors that can contribute to neuropathy include:
• Diabetes and prediabetes
• Autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis)
• Vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins
• Thyroid disease
• Kidney or liver disease
• Alcohol misuse
• Certain medications
• Chemotherapy and cancer treatments
• Spinal problems, nerve compression, or back injuries
• Infections such as shingles or Lyme disease
• Circulation issues
• Injuries, trauma, or repetitive pressure on nerves
Some neuropathy may be temporary. For example, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy can improve after treatment for some individuals, though symptoms may persist for others. Nerve irritation caused by compression or vitamin deficiencies may also improve when the underlying cause is treated.
Unfortunately, some nerve damage can become permanent, especially when the cause is longstanding or untreated.
Why is neuropathy in the feet so concerning?
When you cannot feel pressure, pain, heat, cold, or injury properly, small problems can become serious problems without you realizing it. A blister, pressure area, crack in the skin, burn from hot water, or a poorly fitting shoe may go unnoticed until infection, tissue damage, or wounds develop.
Neuropathy may also affect balance and gait, increasing the risk of falls.
Why socks and shoes matter
Proper footwear is not just about comfort — it is protection.
People living with neuropathy should consider:
• Shoes with a proper fit and adequate toe room
• Supportive footwear that reduces pressure and friction
• Avoiding tight, narrow, or poorly fitted shoes
• Seamless or non-irritating socks when possible
• Moisture-wicking socks to help reduce skin issues
• Daily inspection of socks and footwear for wear, pressure points, or objects inside
Walking barefoot, even at home, can increase the risk of cuts, punctures, burns, and injury when sensation is reduced.
Why see a Foot Care Nurse?
Routine foot care becomes even more important when neuropathy is present.
A Foot Care Nurse can help by:
• Assessing skin, nails, circulation, sensation, and pressure areas
• Identifying early concerns before they become serious problems
• Providing safe nail and foot care when self-care becomes difficult or risky
• Monitoring changes over time
• Offering education on footwear, skin care, and daily foot checks
• Helping reduce risk factors that may lead to wounds or complications
If you have numbness, tingling, burning, foot pain, or changes in sensation, do not ignore it. Early assessment and ongoing foot monitoring can make a meaningful difference in protecting foot health and mobility.
Soltree Wellness - Oromocto
Advanced Foot Care Nursing | Reflexology | Red Light Therapy
867-686-7242
www.soltreewellness.ca
