Gluten & Your Feet
September 13th is National Celiac Disease Awareness Day. Celiac Disease is a genetic autoimmune disease that's triggered by ingesting gluten, and it's estimated that 1 in 133 Americans have CD. Celiac Disease can be accompanied by a range of digestive issues, along with symptoms and conditions like nutrient deficiency, ataxia, SIBO, peripheral neuropathy, and much more. When discussing your foot health & Celiac Disease, peripheral neuropathy can be a large part of the conversation. If you're experience pain, numbness, tingling, or instability - come see us!
Signs of Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral Neuropathy can show itself in a variety of ways, with numbness, tingling, or prickly sensations being among the most common. This condition can also be accompanies by burning, shooting sensations, sensitivity to touch, and overall weakness. Your feet are largely impacted by peripheral neuropathy due to the amount of nerves we have in our feet. If you notice difficulty walking, maintaining your balance, and a loss of coordination - visit your podiatrist for evaluation.
Tips & Treatment
For people with Celiac Disease, it's important to prioritize routine foot care to monitor for any signs of neuropathy or other related complications. We recommend regular visits to help detect, address, and monitor issues early on to reduce further complications. Due to the limited sensation, it may be harder to notice changes in your foot health or detect new injuries.
Treating celiac-related neuropathy may include following a gluten free diet to prevent further nerve damage, along with medications to manage pain and improve your overall nerve function. Supporting proper alignment can help reduce the strain on your nerves as well, which is why physical therapy and orthotic inserts may be recommended in your treatment plan.
At Lexington Podiatry, our experienced team is dedicated to helping people with Celiac Disease maintain optimal foot health, independence, and overall well-being. If you've been diagnosed with Celiac Disease, or are experiencing symptoms of neuropathy, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us! Our team will perform an in-depth, comprehensive foot exam and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs. Let's work together to raise awareness about Celiac Disease and the impact it can have on your foot health - share this blog with your loved ones and send them our way!