[C. C. Rider]

Originally Posted by elevatorman

I asked Chat GPT and this is what it said:

"What Type of Doctor to See

Primary care physician – first step for initial evaluation, bloodwork, and referrals
Neurologist – specializes in nerve conditions, often the key doctor for neuropathy
Podiatrist – for foot care, especially if numbness is causing balance issues or injuries
Vascular specialist – if circulation problems are suspected"

Then these tests:

"Blood Tests
Vitamin levels
Vitamin B12 (plus methylmalonic acid, homocysteine if B12 borderline)
Folate
Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B6, Vitamin E if suspicion
Thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T4) – rules out hypothyroidism
Kidney function (BUN, creatinine, electrolytes)
Liver function panel
CBC (complete blood count) – screens for anemia, infection, bone marrow issues
Fasting glucose & Hemoglobin A1c – even if not diabetic, helps rule out prediabetes
Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP/UPEP) – checks for multiple myeloma or monoclonal gammopathy
Inflammatory/autoimmune tests (if indicated): ANA, ESR, CRP, rheumatoid factor

Imaging / Specialized Tests
MRI of the spine (lumbar region) – checks for herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or pinched nerves
Ultrasound or Doppler of legs – if poor circulation / PAD is suspected
Nerve & Muscle Tests
Nerve conduction study (NCS) – measures how well nerves transmit signals
Electromyography (EMG) – evaluates muscle activity and detects nerve damage pattern

Physical Exams
Reflexes, vibration, pinprick, and temperature sensation tests
Foot exam for ulcers, calluses, balance issues

✅ Tip: Bring a list of all medications, supplements, alcohol intake, and toxin exposures (even things like old well water, industrial chemicals, or heavy metals can be relevant)."

I have the same condition and needed a place to start. Take the list to your doctor and see what they think.

Thank you for the detailed list. She has taken some of those initial steps and has an appointment in about two weeks with an orthopedist to look at the Xray of her spine.