Sensory disturbance

Sensory disturbances mean that many nerves, especially those in the feet, do not function as they should. This means that they conduct nerve signals poorly. 2-3% of the population suffer from sensory disturbances and the frequency increases with age.

What are the symptoms of reduced sensation?

The first symptoms are often reduced sensation in the skin and joints. This can give the feeling of having cushions under the feet and unsteady gait. In addition, some experience painful tingling or pricking.

Reduced joint sensation means that one is uncertain about where the foot is. This means that one can more easily stumble or twist the foot and causes general difficulty with balance.

Later, there may be progressive weakness, which can manifest as reduced strength when the foot is to be bent upwards, also called foot drop. Read more about reduced sensation here.

Why do people develop sensory disturbances?

There are many different causes of sensory disturbances. The condition is often a consequence of another disease, such as a result of excessive alcohol consumption, insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes, metabolic disease, vitamin B12 deficiency, heredity or other disease

How are sensory disturbances examined and treated?

The neurologist makes the diagnosis based on medical history, symptoms and a thorough examination.

Supplementary examinations may be necessary, for example X-ray, blood tests or EMG or a so-called spinal fluid test (lumbar puncture)

The goal of treatment is to prevent the condition from worsening.

If another disease is the cause of the condition, e.g. diabetes, it is important to treat this disease as well as possible. If excessive alcohol consumption is the cause, this should be reduced and preferably stopped. In these cases, supplementation with B vitamins can also help.

Physical exercise is good for functional level, but it probably does not affect the disease itself.

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