Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy in the Foot
Diabetes is a medical condition that is characterized by above normal blood sugar levels. Diabetes has three classic symptoms; polyuria, polydipsia and polyphagia.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes mellitus – previously referred to as insulin-dependent-diabetes-mellitus
Type 2 diabetes mellitus – also called insulin-independent-diabetes-mellitus
Gestational diabetes – a type of diabetes that occurs in pregnant women
Diabetes could result to numerous complications. This can include foot disorders due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can cause damage to the nerve cells of the arms, hands, hips, leg and feet. Symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is diminished sensation in affected areas. This condition if left untreated can lead to serious complications and even death. This condition also increases your risk for injuries and foot ulceration.
The best way to prevent this disorder is proper management of your blood glucose levels. Prescription medications can be prescribed for treating other symptoms.
Symptoms of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Numbness in the foot and lower extremities can be a sign of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Pain is our body’s normal reaction to injuries. But people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy are not given this benefit. Foot wounds might go unnoticed for days and even weeks until it has become a serious medical condition.
The wound could get infected and spread towards other areas. By this time the infection has become severe that to stop its spread, amputation would be the best treatment. This is why patients suffering from diabetes need to inspect their feet more frequently. It is also recommended for them to visit the podiatrist or foot specialist for any signs of foot disorder.
Treating Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
The podiatrist may prescribe a number of medicines to deal with the various effects of nerve damage. However, these medicines will only relieve the symptoms caused by this disorder. Up to this day, a medication for the prevention and treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy is yet to be found. The best way to avoid the development of the disorder is to strictly control your blood glucose levels.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.