Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, often affecting the feet and legs. It commonly causes numbness, tingling, and burning, and it is frequently related to diabetes.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy means the nerves that carry signals to and from the feet and legs are not working properly.
It often starts in the feet and slowly moves upward, causing numbness, tingling, burning, or a pins-and-needles feeling. Over time it can dull the sense of touch, which is why a loss of feeling in the feet needs attention, especially for people with diabetes, because small injuries can go unnoticed.
The most common cause is diabetes, but neuropathy can also come from vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, alcohol use, certain medications, and other conditions. Reduced circulation can look and feel similar, so both the nerves and the blood flow are worth checking.
When to get urgent care
Most neuropathy is managed in regular visits, but seek prompt care if you have:
- A non-healing sore, blister, or wound on the foot
- A foot that is cold, pale, or blue (circulation problem)
- Signs of infection: redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage
- Sudden weakness or numbness spreading up the legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control with numbness
- A foot injury you cannot feel
How peripheral neuropathy is treated
Care focuses on treating the cause, easing symptoms, and protecting the feet. A specialist may recommend:
- Managing the cause: such as controlling blood sugar or correcting a vitamin deficiency.
- Medication: to calm nerve pain and burning.
- Foot protection and circulation checks: daily foot care and testing blood flow to prevent complications.
Catching neuropathy early gives the best chance of slowing it and protecting the nerves and feet.
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Related leg symptoms
This condition can show up as one or more of these symptoms. Tap any card to learn more.
Leg Pain
Aching, throbbing, or pain when walking.
Leg Cramps
Sudden, tight muscle spasms.
Leg Swelling
Puffy ankles, feet, or calves.
Restless Legs
Urge to move, worse at night.
Numbness / Tingling
Pins and needles or loss of feeling.
Burning Sensation
Hot or searing feeling in the legs.
Cold Feet
Feet that feel cold or pale.
Heavy Legs
Tired, aching, weighed-down legs.
Questions people ask about neuropathy
What does peripheral neuropathy feel like?
It often feels like numbness, tingling, burning, or pins and needles, usually starting in the feet. Over time it can reduce the sense of touch.
What causes it?
Diabetes is the most common cause. It can also come from vitamin deficiencies, thyroid problems, alcohol use, certain medications, and other conditions.
Can neuropathy be treated?
Yes. Treating the underlying cause, medication for nerve symptoms, and careful foot care can ease symptoms and help protect the nerves. Early evaluation matters.
Is numbness in my feet serious?
A loss of feeling can allow injuries to go unnoticed, which is risky, especially with diabetes. It is worth having checked, along with your circulation.
Numbness, tingling, or burning feet?
Get matched with a specialist near you who can check your nerves and circulation and build a plan.
Find a Specialist Near YouLast updated July 2026