May I ask what your consumption of alcohol was/is? How did your PN manifest? I drink daily in the realm of 2-3 drinks a day in the evening for many, many years. I've been told that you don't necessarily have to be an alcoholic for it to have a toxic affect in the long run. I enjoy my Happy Hour ritual with my husband and since my neuropathy symptoms seem to be relatively mild, I'm not motivated to quit.
About two years ago I started feeling that my sock was wadded up in my shoe, right foot. I was convinced that it was Morton's neuroma. But the sensation progressed to both feet and eventually up my calves. I had a neurology consult and EMG study (within normal limits). Due to an insurance change, I never went any further in terms of ruling out small fiber. My PCP convinced me to take 300 mg Gabapentin three times a day and to try to cut down.
I can still manage a three mile walk but I do believe that's my limit and little by little the "uncomfortable" sensations - numbness & tingling - are bordering on painful during the night. Once I get up and moving I don't think too much about discomfort.
I'd love to hear your story. It "might" be inspiring in terms of my plan of care.