If you have ever wondered whether the numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet is something you are stuck with for life, you are not alone. This is one of the most common questions we hear at Waves of Wellness Chiropractic in Leland.
In this video, Dr. Megan Tomberlin explains what neuropathy really is, what causes it, and most importantly, what can actually improve with the right approach.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy simply means that the nerves are not functioning the way they should. Most people describe it as burning, tingling, numbness, pins and needles, or even a cold sensation in their feet.
For some, symptoms are worse at night. For others, they show up when walking or standing. And for many people, neuropathy slowly gets worse over time, which is what makes it so concerning.
Common Symptoms of Foot Neuropathy
- Burning or hot sensation in the feet
- Tingling or pins and needles feeling
- Numbness or reduced sensation
- Cold feeling even when feet are warm
- Pain that worsens at night or with activity
- Balance problems or feeling unsteady
What Causes Neuropathy?
Neuropathy can happen for a few different reasons. Sometimes it is related to circulation. Sometimes it is due to chronic conditions like diabetes. Sometimes it is from mechanical issues, like pressure or irritation along the nerve pathway. And in many cases, it is actually a combination of factors.
Is Neuropathy Reversible?
The honest answer is that it depends on the type of neuropathy and how long it has been going on. But here is the encouraging part. Many people can experience real improvement, especially when we catch it early and address the underlying causes instead of just masking symptoms.
In our office, we generally see three broad categories:
1. Nerve Irritation or Compression
This could be coming from the lower back, the hips, or even along the pathway down the leg. These cases often respond very well to chiropractic care because we are addressing the source of the pressure on the nerve.
2. Poor Circulation and Tissue Health
When the nerves are not getting enough oxygen and nutrients, they cannot function properly. This is where therapies like cold laser can be incredibly helpful. Cold laser works by stimulating cellular activity, improving blood flow, and helping the body repair damaged tissue at a deeper level.
3. Chronic or Systemic Neuropathy
These cases may not fully reverse, such as what we often see with long standing diabetes. But that does not mean nothing can be done. We focus on improving function, reducing pain, and slowing progression so you can stay active and independent.
What Does Improvement Look Like?
For some people, it means less burning at night so they can finally sleep. For others, it means being able to walk longer distances without discomfort. Sometimes it is improved balance, which reduces the risk of falls. And for many, it is simply getting feeling back in their feet so they feel more stable and confident.
Our Treatment Approach
One of the treatments Dr. Megan personally focuses on is dry needling. Dry needling helps release tight muscle patterns, improve blood flow, and reduce irritation around nerves.
When we combine that with chiropractic adjustments and supportive therapies like cold laser, we are creating an environment where the body has a much better chance to heal and function properly.
If you have been told that nothing can be done except to manage it with medication, we want you to know that there are other options to explore. Medication can help with symptoms, but it does not address why the nerve is not functioning correctly in the first place.
Our approach is different. We look at the whole picture. How your nerves are functioning, how your joints are moving, how your muscles are supporting you, and how well your body is circulating and healing.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You do not have to just wait and see what happens with neuropathy. There are steps you can take, and there is a path forward. We would love to help guide you through that process.