Peripherial Neuropathy testing

[Doreen0805]

I recently went to a Podiatrist regarding a sensation I was having in my foot, that felt like something was in my shoe.  This doctor told me I have Pheripherial Neuropathy, following a brief physical exam.  

My question is this...is there a test that should be done to determine I have Pheripherial Neuropathy, or should I trust this brief physical exam?   He prescribed Neurotin 3 x a day.   I am a type II Diabetic (since 2000) and am curious if there should be some testing done prior to medicating....?

[Ruth69]

I had similar numbness in my feet.  It started with my toes and when later to my both feet.  I suggest you have an MRI done to rule out disc injury or bulging.

[missouriangel]

I don't know what type of Neuropathy I have but my doctor is ordering an EMG test. Maybe that will help you. Also there were lab test that helped to diagnose me.

[Doreen0805]

Thanks for your reply.  I learned that it is actually numbness in my foot I was feeling, but it felt like my sock was twisted - but it wasn't!

This Podiatrist did no testing, just poked around my foot and watched me for any reaction.   The prescribed the medication.

I felt this was strange and that surely there must be testing done before a diagnosis of neuropathy.

I'll be checking with my general physician.

[Doreen0805]

That's exactly what I thought - there should be some kind of testing to be done, rather than just physically examining my foot!

Thanks for your response!

[Ruth69]

I had both an EMG and MRI done.  The EMG did not show anything, but the MRI did.  Make sure if you have am MRI, it is done on the whole spine not just the lumbar region.  My disc rupture problem is in the thoracic part of the spine which is 1 in a million!  Good luck!