Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. When it affects the arms, hands, legs and feet, it is known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy does not emerge overnight. Instead, it usually develops slowly and worsens over time. Some patients have this condition long before they are diagnosed with diabetes. Having diabetes for several years may increase the likelihood of having diabetic neuropathy. The loss of sensation and other problems associated with nerve damage make a patient prone to developing skin ulcers (open sores) that can become infected and may not heal. This serious complication of diabetes can lead to loss of a foot, a leg or even a life.

As diabetic peripheral neuropathy progresses, various nerves are affected. These damaged nerves can cause problems that encourage development of ulcers. For example:

• Deformities (such as bunions or hammertoes) resulting from motor neuropathy may cause shoes to rub against toes, creating a sore. The numbness caused by sensory neuropathy can make the patient unaware that this is happening.

• Because of numbness, a patient may not realize that s/he has stepped on a small object and cut the skin.

• Cracked skin caused by autonomic neuropathy, combined with sensory neuropathy’s numbness and problems associated with motor neuropathy, can lead to developing a sore.

First and foremost, treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy centers on control of the patient’s blood sugar level. In addition, various options are used to treat the painful symptoms.

Medications are available to help relieve specific symptoms, such as tingling or burning. Sometimes a combination of different medications is used.

The patient plays a vital role in minimizing the risk of developing diabetic peripheral neuropathy and in preventing its possible consequences. Some important preventive measures include:

• Keep blood sugar levels under control.

• Wear well-fitting shoes to avoid getting sores.

• Inspect your feet every day. If you notice any cuts, redness, blisters or swelling, see your foot doctor right away. This can prevent problems from becoming worse.

• Visit your foot doctor on a regular basis for an examination to help prevent the foot complications of diabetes.

• Have periodic visits with your primary care physician or endocrinologist. Your foot doctor works together with these and other providers to prevent and treat complications from diabetes.

Here at Dearborn Foot and Ankle, we are specialized in the treatment of a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions.

Come see us, we will be happy to go over your treatment options.

Contact us today for an appointment or to learn more.