Vitamin B-12 is important for the function of many parts of the body, including your nerves. In some cases, a lack of B-12 can cause nerve damage in the extremities, including the feet. In these cases, vitamin B-12 supplements may help relieve some symptoms of nerve damage; however, vitamin B-12 will not be effective for other causes of foot neuropathy.
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-12, as a member of the B family of vitamins, is important for converting carbohydrates, proteins and fats into forms of energy the body can use. This vitamin also is essential for many other biological processes, including synthesis of DNA, red blood cells and myelin, a substance that forms a protective sheath around nerves in the body.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a blanket term that describes any sort of damage to the peripheral nervous system, the part of the nervous system that exists outside of the brain and spinal cord. Peripheral neuropathy can interfere with transmission of signals from the brain to the foot and vice versa. Foot neuropathy can cause an array of symptoms, including loss of sensation, burning or pain, tingling, sensitivity to touch and muscle weakness.
Vitamin B-12 and Neuropathy
In some cases, a lack of vitamin B-12 can cause nerve problems. A vitamin B-12 deficiency can, over time, cause destruction of the myelin sheath that protects nerves in the foot and elsewhere in the body. In these cases, your feet may develop a tingling sensation, become painful or feel numb. Often the nerve problems occur after the onset of anemia because of impaired red blood cell production. The Advanced Foot and Ankle Center of San Diego also uses vitamin B-12 supplements to help treat foot neuropathy caused by diabetes.
Considerations
Although vitamin B-12 may be effective in treating some forms of foot neuropathy, it is unlikely to be of benefit if you do not have a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Your doctor can run blood tests to determine whether low amounts of dietary vitamin B-12 or poor B-12 absorption are factors in any nerve problems you have. Do not use vitamin B-12 supplements as a substitute for your doctor's care.
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