There are a few options for the relief of burning sensation in the feet. Burning, numbness in the toes, and a tingling sensation, can be symptoms of a stress fracture, a compression of a nerve, arthritis, inflamed tendons, or neuroma, so a complete examination has to be done by an experienced podiatrist. An X-ray, CAT scan, or MRI will be able to rule out a stress fracture or arthritis, but nerve tissue cannot be seen. Nerve conduction studies are also not helpful because a neuroma has to be felt to be diagnosed. Once diagnosed, there are a few options for Burning Treatments in Joliet IL.
A neuroma is common, and can happen in the toes, the heel, and the ball of the foot. A nerve swells and can become pinched or permanently damaged. It can be caused by poor circulation, a puncture wound, or a laceration.
The condition is common in diabetics due to a decrease in circulation, neuropathy, and limited ability to heal. The pain is usually intermittent and can be severe. The most common Burning Treatments in Joliet IL are cortisone injections and custom orthotics, either used alone, or in combination. That is the first course of action, and is successful for many patients. Click here to know more.
For more serious cases, Burning Treatments in Joliet IL can consist of chemical destruction of the nerve or surgery. Chemical destruction of the nerve is an older treatment that is experiencing a re-emergence due to the shorter recovery time and lower cost compared to surgery. Several injections, at intervals of seven to ten days apart, are injected into the nerve. The solution is a mixture of ethanol and a local anesthetic that kills the nerve. The treatment requires repeated trips to the office, and most patients experience pain at the injection site for one or two days. The last resort option is surgery to remove the nerve.
A podiatrist office that specializes in comprehensive treatments, such as Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates in Joliet IL, for example, can review the situation of each patient and develop an individualized treatment plan. Patients should ask any questions they may have and make sure they understand all the options before deciding on a treatment.