Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral Neuropathy Evaluation for Northwestern Illinois & Southern Wisconsin

Burning, numbness, and tingling in the feet or hands are common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Evaluation focuses on finding the cause, measuring nerve function, and building a plan that includes lifestyle and nutrition, not just medication. Serving patients throughout Northwestern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.

Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment"

What peripheral neuropathy feels like

Peripheral neuropathy means the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord are not working properly. Symptoms often start in the toes and feet and may move upward. They can be constant or come and go, and they frequently worsen at night.

Burning, stabbing, or electric-shock pain
Numbness or reduced sensation, especially in the feet
Tingling or pins-and-needles sensation
Balance problems or frequent stumbling
Weakness in the feet or hands
Symptoms that interfere with sleep

Common causes we evaluate

Diabetes and prediabetes

High blood sugar is one of the most common causes of peripheral neuropathy. Even prediabetes can produce early symptoms.

Vitamin deficiencies

Low vitamin B12 and other nutritional deficiencies can damage peripheral nerves, sometimes before other problems appear.

Thyroid and metabolic disease

Hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and liver disease can all contribute to neuropathy.

Medications, alcohol, and toxins

Certain medications, heavy alcohol use, and toxin exposure can injure peripheral nerves.

Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions

Conditions such as celiac disease, Sjögren's syndrome, and other inflammatory disorders can attack peripheral nerves.

Nerve compression

Local entrapments — such as tarsal tunnel syndrome or peroneal nerve compression — can mimic or add to generalized neuropathy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and neurological examination. Depending on the situation, testing may include blood work for diabetes, B12, thyroid, and other causes, plus EMG and nerve conduction studies to confirm whether nerves are affected and how severely.

Detailed symptom history and neurological examination
Blood tests for diabetes, B12, thyroid, kidney, and liver function
Review of medications, alcohol use, and family history
EMG and nerve conduction studies when the diagnosis is unclear
Focused testing for autoimmune or inflammatory causes when indicated

Treatment and lifestyle

Treatment depends on the cause. When a reversible factor is found — such as a vitamin deficiency, medication effect, or poorly controlled blood sugar — addressing it is the first step. Symptom treatment and protective measures are added based on your specific situation.

Treating the underlying cause when one is identified
Blood sugar, nutrition, and vitamin optimization
Foot care and fall-prevention strategies
Medications for nerve pain when appropriate
Physical therapy and balance training
Regular follow-up to track changes over time

Lifestyle matters

Nutrition, exercise, sleep, and limiting alcohol play a meaningful role in neuropathy management. These are discussed as part of the treatment plan, not afterthoughts.

When to seek urgent care

Most neuropathy develops gradually, but some symptoms need immediate evaluation. Seek emergency care for sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, or numbness with loss of bladder or bowel control.

Frequently asked questions

When should I see a neurologist for numbness and tingling?: Consider an evaluation when numbness or tingling persists, spreads, affects both feet or both hands, is accompanied by weakness or balance problems, or interferes with sleep and walking.
What does an EMG test evaluate?: EMG and nerve conduction studies measure how well nerves conduct signals and how muscles respond. They help identify whether nerve damage is present, which nerves are involved, and how severe the problem is.
Can neuropathy be treated?: Treatment depends on the cause. Identifying and addressing contributing factors such as diabetes, vitamin B12 deficiency, thyroid disease, alcohol use or medication effects is central, along with symptom management and attention to nutrition, exercise and foot care.
Is neuropathy always caused by diabetes?: No. Diabetes is a common cause, but neuropathy can also result from vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions, medications, alcohol use, nerve compression and other causes, and sometimes no cause is identified.

Request a Neurology Appointment

Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment," or call 815-337-7100 to schedule. Our office will follow up to confirm your evaluation.

In-person visits and televisits (telehealth) are both available.

What happens after you text

Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment." Our office calls you back to schedule — you do not need to fill out a form.

When you'll hear back

Texts and calls received during office hours are typically returned the same business day. You can also call 815-337-7100 directly.

Insurance and referrals

Insurance participation and referral requirements vary by plan. Our office will confirm what your plan requires before your visit.

Text 815-276-7050 with your first name and the word "appointment"

Call 815-337-7100

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