5 Tips for Managing Foot Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that often affects your lower extremities (legs and feet). It can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and balance problems, having a major impact on daily activities. 

It’s estimated that at least 20 million Americans live with neuropathy, and while there’s no cure, the right strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, podiatrist Andrew McCall, DPM, FACFAS, provides complete neuropathy care. From medication to advanced therapies, his goal is to slow progression, relieve discomfort, and help patients stay active. Here are five practical tips for managing foot neuropathy.

1. Choose the right footwear

Shoes play a significant role in protecting your feet when you have neuropathy. Because sensation is often reduced, it’s easy to miss pressure points, blisters, or cuts that could turn into bigger problems. Look for shoes with:

• Extra cushioning
• Wide toe boxes
• Supportive soles

Dr. McCall may also recommend custom orthotics or prescription footwear to reduce pressure and improve stability.

2. Prioritize foot care

Daily foot checks are essential to keeping your feet healthy when you’re living with neuropathy. Use a mirror or ask a loved one to help examine your feet for redness, sores, or wounds. Even small cuts can become serious if ignored. 

Keep your feet clean, dry, and moisturized, but avoid using lotion between the toes, where excess moisture can cause infections. Regular visits with a podiatrist ensures you can catch problems early.

3. Manage underlying conditions

Neuropathy is most often linked to chronic conditions like diabetes and peripheral artery disease (PAD). Keeping these conditions under control is one of the most effective ways to slow nerve damage. That means:

• Monitoring blood sugar levels
• Maintaining a healthy diet
• Avoiding tobacco
• Limiting alcohol intake

These lifestyle changes don’t just help your nerves. They also improve your overall health.

4. Stay active and build strength

Exercise improves circulation, reduces pain, and strengthens the muscles that support your ankles and feet. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or cycling are great options.

Physical therapy can also target balance and coordination, helping to prevent falls. Always check with your doctor before starting new exercise routines to make sure they’re safe for your condition.

5. Explore treatment options

At Alpine Foot and Ankle, Dr. McCall offers a wide range of treatments to manage neuropathy. These include:

• Prescription medications
• TENS therapy to stimulate nerves
• Corticosteroid injections
• Specialized braces or other medical equipment for support
• Surgery to repair nerves in severe cases

Treatment is tailored to each patient’s needs, with the goal of relieving pain and keeping you mobile so you can continue to do the things you enjoy.

Find relief from foot nerve pain 

Foot neuropathy doesn’t have to control your life. With the right care and management, you can reduce discomfort, protect your feet, and stay active. If you’re living with neuropathy symptoms, call us at Alpine Foot and Ankle in Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Alpine, Wyoming, today or book an appointment online.