Types of Neuropathy in Feet and Legs

Overview

There are several types of neuropathy in feet and legs. The more you know about them the better off you will be.

Distal Symmetrical Polyneuropathy

This type, also just called polyneuropathy, involves the legs and feet. People suffering from polyneuropathy say they have numbness or tingling in the feet. Sometimes a burning sensation is noted. Stabilizing blood-glucose levels is the best treatment at present.

Proximal Motor Neuropathy

This type involves damage to the nerves in the muscle, resulting in weakness and shrinking of the muscle fibers. Some sufferers also experience a burning sensation. Proximal Motor Neuropathy is also known as Diabetic Amyotrophy. This type of neuropathy most commonly affects the hands and thighs and may also affect the ankle joint.

Other Types of Neuopathy (Not Types of Neuropathy in Feet and Legs)

Autonomic Neuropathy This type of neuropathy involves nerves function automatically such as those that control blood pressure, digestion, sweating, the urge to go to the bathroom, balance and sexual functions.

Cranial Mononeuropathy most often involves the eye muscles and it may also involve the spine. Symptoms include double vision, drooping eyelids, and eyes that drain.

Radiculopathy begins at the roots of the spinal nerves. The sufferer may experience pain or sensory loss on any part of the skin surface. Radiculopathy occurs most often in the nerves between the ribs. This leads to very severe chest pain, especially when breathing. Occasionally the sufferer will need to be placed on oxygen because the pain is so severe, they cannot take a deep breath.