Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that according to the Mayo Clinic can affect as many as 50% of people with diabetes. It usually damages nerves in the extremities (hands and feet) and is caused by high blood sugar levels. One common symptom is feeling like you’re walking on pins and needles which is both painful and disruptive. In this post, we’ll explain diabetic neuropathy in more detail and offer some tips for managing and living with the condition. So, let’s get started.
Neuropathy is a common long-term complication of diabetes.
Prolonged high blood sugar levels can harm the small blood vessels that nourish your nerves, depriving them of essential nutrients. This damage can lead to the deterioration, and even loss, of nerve fibers. Depending on which nerves are affected, this can cause issues in various parts of the body.
There are four main types of neuropathy:
But for this blog, we’ll be discussing peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy and can be linked to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. Initially, it affects the legs and feet followed by the arms and hands. The main symptoms, which are often worse at night, include:
It’s vital to visit your health provider if you experience the following signs of early peripheral neuropathy:
As with most conditions, the earlier peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed, the better your chances of limiting the damage and preventing further complications.
Failing to treat the underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy can raise the risk of developing a potentially serious complication such as a foot ulcer which could become infected.
If left untreated, the infected ulcer could lead to gangrene which in severe cases may mean amputation of your foot.
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends immediate screening for diabetic neuropathy following a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes and screening after 5 years following a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes.
For those with diabetic neuropathy, controlling blood sugar levels is essential to prevent further nerve damage and possibly halt its progression. Lifestyle changes and careful diabetes management are key strategies for protecting nerve health.
Incorporating physical exercise into their daily routine often helps patients maintain optimal blood glucose levels and reduce symptoms. Adopting a healthy and nutritious diet also plays a vital role in managing blood sugar levels which, over time, can sometimes improve the symptoms of this chronic condition. Here’s a post we wrote earlier that you may find helpful: Five of the best types of food for diabetic neuropathy.
To manage pain from diabetic neuropathy, healthcare providers often prescribe medications known as neuropathic pain agents aimed at relieving discomfort. Regular check-ups with neurologists and podiatrists are crucial for closely monitoring the condition and examining the feet to prevent complications like foot ulcers. This approach highlights the importance of comprehensive care in managing diabetic neuropathy effectively.
Besides the standard approach of managing blood sugar levels and using medications other technologies and treatments can offer relief from pain and more hope for the future.
Neurogenx – An innovative minimally invasive solution utilizing advanced high-frequency wave technology that penetrates deeply into the muscle and tissue promoting nerve regeneration and pain reduction.
Physical therapy – Physiotherapy can assist in controlling blood sugar levels and reduce pain and numbness in a person’s feet and hands. A therapist can also provide exercises to do at home to help increase mobility.
Nerve stimulation - Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may help relieve pain from diabetic neuropathy but results vary from one person to another.
Lifestyle modifications for anxiety and depression – Chronic pain from nerve damage which may hinder a person’s ability to get out and about can lead to anxiety and depression. Lifestyle changes including exercise, diet, not drinking alcohol and certain types of mental training like meditation and positive thinking coupled with relaxation techniques can offer symptomatic relief.
Foot care and orthodontic devices – Specialized footwear and custom orthodontic devices help protect the feet, improving comfort and preventing complications.
You might want to explore these options in consultation with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach tailored to your needs.
In conclusion, managing diabetic neuropathy requires a comprehensive approach that includes regular medical consultations and effective pain management strategies. Seeking specialized care is essential for preventing complications and preserving nerve health.
At MINT STL, our board-certified vascular and interventional radiologists provide advanced, non-surgical treatments to help manage diabetic neuropathy and its complications. Schedule a consultation today to explore personalized care options tailored to your needs. Visit MINT STL to learn more and take the next step towards better health.
