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Are Numbness And Difficulty Walking Indicative Of Peripheral Neuropathy?
Question: I have difficulty walking. A few steps and they no longer will hold me up. Also, it feels as if my legs beginning at the pelvis and extending to my ankles have reduced sensation, feels as if I have compression stockings on but I do not. I also have intermittant pain, especially at night that seems to feel like what others with diabetic nerve pain experience. I do not have diabeties.
Brief Answer:
Possible Diagnosis: Peripheral neuropathy, Spinal nerve compression
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
The pain you are experiencing is likely a neurological issue. Peripheral neuropathy needs to be ruled out with nerve conduction studies.
There are several causes other than diabetes that can cause peripheral neuropathy like vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, etc.
If peripheral neuropathy is confirmed, then a detailed evaluation to identify the underlying cause is important.
You will also require an MRI spine to rule.out any underlying spinal nerve compression that can cause similar symptoms.
Osteoarthritis of the spine, disc prolapse are few common causes that can cause spinal nerve compression.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for further evaluation and management.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Lekshmi Rita Venugopal, General & Family Physician
Possible Diagnosis: Peripheral neuropathy, Spinal nerve compression
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
The pain you are experiencing is likely a neurological issue. Peripheral neuropathy needs to be ruled out with nerve conduction studies.
There are several causes other than diabetes that can cause peripheral neuropathy like vitamin B12 deficiency, hypothyroidism, etc.
If peripheral neuropathy is confirmed, then a detailed evaluation to identify the underlying cause is important.
You will also require an MRI spine to rule.out any underlying spinal nerve compression that can cause similar symptoms.
Osteoarthritis of the spine, disc prolapse are few common causes that can cause spinal nerve compression.
Please be advised to follow up with your primary care provider for further evaluation and management.
Hope I have answered your query.
Take care
Regards,
Dr Lekshmi Rita Venugopal, General & Family Physician
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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