Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes. It is caused by high blood sugar levels, which can damage the small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the nerves. This damage can lead to a range of symptoms, including numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet. In severe cases, diabetic neuropathy can also cause weakness and difficulty with balance and coordination.

There are several types of diabetic neuropathy, including peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves in the arms and legs; autonomic neuropathy, which affects the nerves that control the body’s organs and systems; and focal neuropathy, which affects specific nerves in the body.

Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can vary, depending on the type and location of the nerve damage. Some common symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
• Pain or discomfort in the hands, feet, or legs
• Weakness or muscle wasting in the hands and feet
• Difficulty with balance and coordination
• Difficulty with bowel and bladder function
• Sexual dysfunction
• Increased susceptibility to infections, particularly in the feet

Diabetic neuropathy is more common in people who have had diabetes for a long time, and in those who have poorly controlled blood sugar levels. People with type 1 diabetes are also more likely to develop diabetic neuropathy than those with type 2 diabetes.

There is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, but there are several treatment options that can help manage the symptoms. These may include medications to control pain and other symptoms, physical therapy to improve muscle strength and mobility, and lifestyle changes, such as improving blood sugar control and quitting smoking. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the nerve damage.

It is important for people with diabetes to carefully manage their blood sugar levels and to see their healthcare provider regularly to check for signs of neuropathy. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent or delay the onset of neuropathy and reduce the risk of complications.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that can cause significant pain and discomfort for patients. As an interventional pain management practice, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neuropathic pain, including pain caused by diabetic neuropathy.

In our practice, we take a comprehensive approach to managing diabetic neuropathy, which may include a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. We work closely with our patients to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their individual needs and goals.

One of the key goals of our treatment is to control pain and improve our patients’ quality of life. We offer a range of medications and other therapies to manage pain, including non-opioid pain medications, nerve blocks, and spinal cord stimulation.

In addition to managing pain, we also focus on preventing further nerve damage and improving function. This may involve working with our patients to improve their blood sugar control and overall diabetes management, as well as addressing any other underlying conditions that may be contributing to their neuropathy.

If you or a loved one is experiencing pain due to diabetic neuropathy, we encourage you to contact our practice to learn more about the treatment options available. Our team is dedicated to helping our patients find relief and improve their overall health and well-being.