5 Early Warning Signs of Neuropathy You Should Never Ignore

Neuropathy occurs when you have nerve damage, leading to tingling, numbness, weakness, or burning pain, usually in your hands or feet.

Neuropathy doesn’t suddenly appear out of nowhere — symptoms usually creep in subtly. If these symptoms progress, they can become more difficult to manage.

At ReGen Pain Management in Plano and Frisco, Texas, Dr. Jonathan Koning and our team want to treat your neuropathy before it begins affecting your life. Here are five early warning signs of neuropathy you should never ignore.

1. Tingling in your hands or feet

One of the first signs of neuropathy is a pins-and-needles-type tingling sensation in your hands or feet that comes and goes. You may notice it first thing in the morning or after you’ve been sitting with your legs in a certain position. If it starts lasting longer or happening more often, it’s important to get evaluated.

2. Gradual numbness

You may also notice a gradual numbness working the same way. This typically starts in your fingertips or toes as well, manifesting as a dullness or feeling like you’re wearing gloves or socks even when you’re not. If it continues to spread, you need to be evaluated.

3. Burning pain

Nerve pain is distinctly different from pain from a sore muscle or joint pain. It’s a sharp burning or stabbing pain that can feel like an electric jolt. It can happen suddenly, even from something as innocent as an unexpected touch to your skin. 

If you’re experiencing this, your nerves are already being affected, so you should see a doctor soon.

4. Increased sensitivity 

If you notice more examples of increased sensitivity to normal, everyday touches — like a bedsheet against your skin, a handshake, or taking a shower — that are uncomfortable or even painful, this is a sign your nerves are misfiring and sending pain signals to stimuli that don’t normally produce pain. This is also called allodynia.

5. Muscle weakness

Neuropathy can also interfere with the nerves that control muscle movement, so you may notice your grip isn’t as strong, your feet may catch on the floor, and you may stumble more. 

Balance problems can lead to falls, so it’s important to talk to your doctor sooner rather than later about this symptom.

If you’ve been experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait for them to get worse. Our team at ReGen Pain Management is here to diagnose and treat you with a personalized plan. 

To schedule an appointment, call our location most convenient to you today, or use our online scheduler anytime.