Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a condition associated with diabetes that causes nerve damage in the legs, feet, and toes. Nearly 60% of all diabetics have some sort of nerve damage. Because of how prevalent and potentially dangerous diabetic peripheral neuropathy can be, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of this condition. The symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy that affect the lower limbs may include numbness, tingling, and pain in the legs, feet, or toes. You may also experience other symptoms throughout the body, such as indigestion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, dizziness or fainting, and problems with urination. The risk of nerve damage due to diabetes increases in people who have difficulty managing their blood sugar levels, have high blood pressure, are overweight, and are over 40 years old. If you have the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can help you take care of your lower limbs and manage this condition.
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. Harris L. Klear from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. 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:
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 one of our offices located in Marlton and Delran, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
