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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

neuropathy in feet

by Michelle
(Boston, MA USA)

I have pain in my feet that is painful and tingly and burning due to a second lumbar surgery I had a year ago. I am taking gabapentin and using lidocaine patches but neither work. what can i do ???

Hi Michelle,

Assuming your neuropathy is the direct result of your back surgery, have you spoken with your surgeon about the possibility of back injections in an effort to reduce the pressure directly on the spinal nerves? Therapy directly to the surgical site might also be beneficial in reducing your foot symptoms.

If that is not an option then you may want to experiment with different medications other than Gabapentin. As is the case with most medical conditions there is no single drug that works for everybody. (thats why there are dozens of anti-inflammatory medications, anti-hypertensive medications, etc.)

In conjunction with your prescription medications you may want to supplement with acetyl L-carnitine 600mg/day which has been shown to decrease neuropathic symptoms. You will have to take it for a least 3 months before deciding if it is helpful.

A TENS unit might also be useful. I have found that they work is a low percentage of people who try them, but when they do work they can be very helpful.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for neuropathy in feet

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Oct 07, 2014
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Neuropathy and Vitamin B
by: Bessie Mae

Still in therapy for PF and orthopedist wants me to start taking Vitamin B Complex for the neuropathy. I talked to the pharmacist to get the right dosage and he said without a blood test there is no way of knowing if I need it or not. My neurologist has tried 4 prescription meds and their side effects prohibit use. The neurologist said he would not order a blood test because he doesn't think it is the answer but offered nothing else. What are your thoughts doc?
The knee pain I experience during PT was diagnosed a medial meniscus tear with ultrasound but my feet need to get better before I cross that bridge. PT since May is getting old and wearing a boot for two weeks to get my foot back to "zero".

You have been in physical therapy for five months now. If you are not at least 50-60 percent better, then I would consider ending the PT. If you have not responded beyond that amount, I would have your heel examined by another doctor as to what the actual diagnosis may be.

Vitamin B has been offered as a treatment for neuropathy for decades. In theory if your vitamin B levels are low, then supplementing with Vitamin B may help your neuropathy.

If your doctor does not want to do a blood test, there probably is no harm in taking a good Vitamin B supplement. Make sure it is from a quality manufacturer.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Mar 11, 2013
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Neuropathy after L3/4/5 surgery
by: Melanie

I shattered my L4 - and it was worse than bearing my children. In fact, I was praying for (literally) the 2nd coming. The neuropathy - I can live with - the shattered back - I could not. This is so minimalistic in the Grande Scheme of things. Dr. Reid and Norman did a masterful job of fixing my back. I have minute sciatic afteraffect and considering the nerve was like a fully stretched rubber band, I am thankful I was mobile and walking just hours after the procedure. Yes, the left foot hurts - some times worse than others - and yes, at times the leg. But, I can walk...I have full mobility...and that - is worth it.

Jul 21, 2012
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Feet pain
by: Anonymous

I had 3 back surgeries about 1 1/2 years ago. Both my feet feel numb and cold. I know this doesn't make sense but the pain in my feet is just about unbearable. You would think that with the numbness there would be no pain but that is definitely not the case. I am Diabetic 2 but the pain didn't start until after my surgeries. I can't stand this pain much longer!! I also hav Rheumatoid Arthritis and do take pain pills but the pain pills do not help my feet. Any suggestions?

Jun 22, 2012
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Burning tingling in feet and legs
by: Anonymous

I had a microdiscectomy at two levels: L4-5 and L5-S1. After about a month passed I started to develop neuropathy in my feet and legs that has increasingly worsened. I take an anti depressant called pamelor, two 25mg capsules at bedtime. The generic form is called nortriptiline. This med helps and is not very expensive. I wish my doctor had explained the possiblity of this happening. The after effects of my surgery have outweighed the benefits so far. the doc says that the neuropathy can last up to a year or more... this sucks!

Apr 12, 2012
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Numbness
by: Anonymous

I had L3-4-5 fused in November of 2011 and have no more back pain, but both feet are numb all of the time. I am taking gabapentin 3-100mg three times a day with no apparent change.

Feb 06, 2012
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please help I have neuropathy on left leg
by: Elizabeth

I had 4 lower back surgeries, in the second one I had screws put in and I belive one of the screews cause this neuropathy problem on my left leg; because there was a question on the possition of the screw; afternthe removal of the screws and the hardwear I staring having this kinds of problems, on my left leg, to only get worse and worse over the years, standing for more than 1o minutesin one place; or seathing for more than 15 in one place, its horrible, my leg becomes like a log heavy numb like a ice block; I got paid by the insurance since this accident happen at work; I dont have insurance anymore, I dont work I dont know what else to do??? I did go to a specialist and got a nerve conduction test, and shows possitive for neuropaty; is there any free help out there for me, any ideas??? please send them to me [email protected], thanks so much.

Jun 13, 2011
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foot neuropathy after back surgery
by: Anonymous

both my husband and I have have L4/L5 surgery and we both now have foot neuropathy. My surgery was 5.5 yrs. ago and my husbands was in 1993. I have severe burning at night and sometimes cannot sleep. I was given gabapentin 5 yrs. ago after my surgery at my request due to severe sciatic pain, especially down my left leg. Within 2 wks., by pain was eased, but over the years, I experienced burning in my feet, which has gradually become worse. I take 900 mg. of gabapentin and 9 mg. of melatonin along with tylenol p.m. in order to sleep. Sometimes, even this does not work. My husband and I have both been tested for diabetes, and we do not have it. I think our back surgeons were remiss in not telling us of the potential for this kind of after effect from the surgery, or are they not aware of this problem?

Oct 03, 2010
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residual effects of back surgery
by: Anonymous

I had back surgery about 5 years ago. It was minimally invasive and my back has been great. However, right after the surgery, my sciatic nerve was very painful and I had to ask my doctor if he could prescriabe gabapentin, as a friend of mine had used it after her back surgery. The sciatic pain was relieved, but over the 5 years, I too, have developed neuropathy in my feet with the burning sensation at night and tingling. My doctor did not followup after about 5 weeks after my surgery, so he does not know. I think back surgeons should find out what kinds of repercussions can be associated with back surgery. I also take gabapentin and sometimes Aleve for a more immediate relief. I have to sleep with my feet outside the covers and hope I can get a good night's sleep. Anyone else out there with something that works?

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center

MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS(items I prescribe in the office)

Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain best buy in a pre-made orthotic click link below

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes click link below

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Ontario, Canada

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Fla.

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(location unknown)

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New York

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Memphis, TN

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Scotland

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(location unknown)

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Redondo Beach, CA

Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)

First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)

First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

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(location unknown)

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Madison, Alabama

Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

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Denison, TX

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West lafayette, IN

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Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

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Texas

Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

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Tampa, Florida 33624

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Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

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Edmonton,Canada

....I have been told that it is not hard enough to be cut off. Please help, I am not sure what to do now! THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL AND VERY HELPFUL SITE!

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South Africa

You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

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Mansfield Ctr, CT

First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

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Placentia, California

First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

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Pacific Grove, CA

I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

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Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

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Anonymous

Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette

Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

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Arizona

I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida

1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland

Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina

Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location

...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA

Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA

Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown

Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown

I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous

Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland

Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

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Seattle, WA

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown

Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey

Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown

Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown

Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA

Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown

Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown

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Jackie

San Diego, CA

Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY

Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS

thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado

Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown

Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown

Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin

Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown

Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina

Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida

Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown

Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey

Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown

I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC

Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA

I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

neuropathy in feet

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