Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of type 1 and 2 diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves extending from the brain and spinal cord to various body parts, including the feet. This condition primarily affects the peripheral nerves, which control sensations and movements in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. Characteristics of diabetic peripheral neuropathy are numbing and tingling sensations, loss of feeling in affected areas, and burning or shooting pain. Additional symptoms include muscle weakness, coordination problems, or foot and leg complications. Treatment options may consist of medications to manage pain, exercise to improve strength and coordination, and lifestyle modifications to prevent complications. Studies suggest that low-level laser therapy for peripheral neuropathy may improve pain and other symptoms, such as sensory function. Laser therapy has also been shown to increase foot temperature, suggesting improved microcirculation. If you suffer from diabetic neuropathy, make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss which treatment is best for you.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Gordon Fosdick from Affiliated Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Middlefield and Wallingford, CT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.