Which specialist treats peripheral neuropathy?

A neurologist assesses disorders of the nerves, including changes in sensation, strength and reflexes. Peripheral neuropathy can have several causes, so care may also involve a diabetes clinician, a podiatrist or another specialist. A GP may review your medical history, examine your feet and hands, check medicines and arrange blood tests such as diabetes screening or vitamin B12 testing.

Symptoms can include numbness and tingling, burning pain, reduced balance, weakness or unusual sensitivity to touch. Restless legs can occur for different reasons and does not by itself establish peripheral neuropathy. Finding the underlying cause helps determine whether treatment focuses on glucose control, correcting a deficiency, reducing nerve irritants or protecting affected feet.

Book an assessment if altered sensation persists, spreads or affects walking, sleep or hand use. Check your feet regularly for blisters, cuts, colour changes and pressure areas, especially if sensation is reduced. Wear well-fitting footwear and avoid heat sources that could injure numb skin. Take a list of medicines and mention diabetes, alcohol use, dietary restrictions and any recent illness.

Seek urgent care for rapidly developing weakness, trouble walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe new pain, confusion or numbness affecting one side of the body. Arrange prompt review for an infected foot wound, spreading redness, swelling, fever or a darkening toe. These changes may need treatment beyond a routine neurology appointment.

Ask which cause is being investigated, whether you need diabetes screening, vitamin B12 testing or neurology referral, and how to protect your feet. Discuss pain relief, exercise safety, warning signs of infection and when your symptoms should be reassessed.