Foot Neuropathy in a Motorcycle Accident

Foot Neuropathy 

Foot neuropathy is one of the most commonly overlooked injuries that can occur in a motorcycle accident. Foot neuropathy is a result of nerve damage. Because the feet are in an exposed position at the sides of the motorcycle, they are vulnerable to severe injuries.

Causes of Foot Nerve Damage in a Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident can happen at any time, and even minor collisions can lead to severe injuries. In the case of foot neuropathy, this can occur when bikers have to lay down their motorcycle. Because the feet are resting at the sides of the bike, putting down the motorbike can crush the foot underneath a heavyweight. This extreme pressure on the foot, ankle, and lower leg can damage the nerves that travel through this location. Depending on the orientation of the foot and ankle underneath the motorcycle, the exact nature of the nerve damage can vary. Symptoms of foot nerve damage can present in a variety of ways.

The Role of the Nerves in the Feet

Every part of the body is powered by nerves, and this includes the feet. The types of nerves that innervate the feet include:

• Sensory Nerves: Sensory nerves receive information from the outside world. Examples of information that is collected by sensory nerves include touch, vibration, pain, and temperature. The sensory nerves collect this information from the surface of the skin and transmit it to the brain for processing.
• Motor Nerves: Motor nerves power the muscles in the feet. These motor nerves receive their signals from the brain. The nerves then cause the muscles to contract, powering their movements, and coordinating the feet in space.

Depending on the specific nerves that have been damaged in the feet, the symptoms can vary.

Signs and Symptoms of Foot Neuropathy

If someone has suffered nerve damage in the feet, the symptoms can take many forms. Some of the symptoms that individuals might notice include:

• Individuals might notice that numbness or tingling is developing in the foot gradually over time. This is often described as a “pins and needles” sensation.
• People might also notice that their foot is extremely sensitive to touch. Even putting on socks can feel extreme.
• Some individuals describe a jabbing, throbbing, or burning sensation in their foot.
• Individuals with foot neuropathy often describe pain with simple activities that were previously painless. A typical example is covering up the foot with a blanket.
• Individuals often feel like they are wearing a sock on their foot even when they are not. This develops due to weak signals in the nerves.
• Those who have damage to motor nerves in their foot have trouble coordinating their steps. They fall frequently.
• Individuals often describe an obvious weakness in their foot. They have trouble lifting up their foot to take a step.
• Total damage to the motor nerves can result in foot paralysis.

People might notice some or all of the symptoms above. The symptoms will vary with the specific types of nerves that have been damaged.

Treatment of Foot Nerve Damage

When someone presents to the doctor after a motorcycle accident with the symptoms described above, the doctor will want to identify the specific nerves that have been damaged. To help with this, the doctor may run blood tests, order an imaging scan (such as an MRI), or perform nerve function tests.

Once the damaged nerves have been identified, the treatment will begin. This can include medications such as Gabapentin, pain relievers such as Tramadol, and topical creams. If these medications aren’t enough, the doctor might also refer the individual to a specialist for treatment with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). In severe cases, the doctor might also recommend surgery. Surgical procedures can be used to relieve pressure on damaged nerves, restoring their function.

Watch YouTube Video: What is Peripheral Neuropathy? What Can Be Done About It? This following video discusses peripheral neuropathy, its causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney. Foot neuropathy can be a severe problem following a motorcycle accident. If you or someone you care about has developed foot neuropathy in an accident, please call my office today at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly legal advice.