Neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves in the body become damaged from a number of different illnesses. This is an older term used by people who typically don't understand that most neuropathy in the lower extremity is due to a nerve damage or possible entrapment. 

Doctors will frequently tell patients that there is nothing that can be done for them.  In fact, this means that this doctor doesn't know what can further be done for that patient.  Most traditional doctors and most specialists are not specifically trained in how to diagnose and treat peripheral neuropathy.  There are only a handfull of specialists in Omaha who are well-trained and versed in diagnosing and treating peripheral nerve issues in the lower extremity and Dr DiNucci is one of the elite.  He has trained with the best peripheral nerve surgeons in the world.  He continues to educate the public, medical students, residents and other health care practioners alike on nerve disorders.  Moreover, he is always in learning mode and looking out for another way to help treat difficult cases.  

Peripheral nerve specialists are a different world of physicians.  They are always learning and continuing to better the methods currently used and not afraid to push the boundaries and explore new ways to help people in chronic pain.  Most podiatrists, and other specialists do not have the same training as Dr. DiNucci in relating to peripheral nerves and he is one of the best at diagnosing and helping people in chronic pain.  

Nerve Damage

Nerve damage may be a result of a nerve entrapment in the feet, legs, hip or spine. It may occur as a result of the swelling of the nerve or tightening of a tunnel, or possibly a traction injury after trauma. Nerves may degenerate as a result of a deficiency or toxin and sometimes we can figure this out and sometimes these causes are very costly and difficult to diagnose. Deficiencies, toxins, traction injuries, entrapment injuries, trauma, a cut or stuck nerve will cause a nerve to become dysfunctional and the symptoms will present as burning, tingling numbness or pain. There are other symptoms but these are the most common.   

The symptoms of neuropathy vary greatly and can be minor such as numbness, sensation loss, prickling, and tingling sensations. More painful symptoms include throbbing, burning, freezing, and sharp pains. The most severe symptoms can be muscle weakness/paralysis, problems with coordination, and falling.

Podiatrists rely upon a full medical history and a neurological examination to diagnose peripheral neuropathy in the lower extremity.  Diagnostic injections are sometimes used to test nerve damage, blood tests to detect diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. Imaging tests, such as CT or MRI scans might be used to look for abnormalities.  .Rarely, do nerve conduction tests or EMG's help but sometimes in specific cases they are helpful.  

Treatment depends upon the causes of neuropathy. If the neuropathy was caused by vitamin deficiency, diabetes, infection, or toxic substances, addressing those conditions can lead to the nerve healing and sensation returning to the area.  However, many other times the nerve needs to be released from a tight tunnel or repaired after an injury.  Many times the sooner this occurs, the better the result.  Surgery is outpatient and in most cases the patient is walking right away and no crutches or knee walkers are required.  

Physical therapy is useless to a nerve problem.  If the nerve is not working, by moving the muscles more, the nerves are not going to be stimulated to regenerate. 

If you are experiencing sensation loss, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet, you may be experiencing a nerve problem and Dr. DiNucci is the one you should be talking to.