Prevent Diabetic Peripheral Polyneuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes. As many as half of people with diabetes will develop this condition.

“When I talk with patients, I remind them that neuropathy is one of the most frequent complications we see with diabetes,” said Cynthia Grundy, DPM, with Franciscan Physician Network Glendale Health Center. “Patients can dramatically lower their risk by keeping blood sugar under control and staying consistent with lifestyle changes.”

Key Takeaways: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common diabetes complication that develops over time when blood sugar levels stay too high for too long.
• Neuropathy can affect the nerves in the hands, arms, legs and feet. 
• Treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy focuses on easing symptoms and slowing the disease.

Symptoms Of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in the hands, feet, legs and arms.

If left untreated, it can lead to infection and amputation of the affected area.

The first signs of diabetic peripheral neuropathy are numbness or tingling in both feet. Some people say it feels like insects crawling on the skin.

“What concerns us most is when patients stop noticing injuries altogether,” Dr. Grundy explained. “A blister or cut may go untreated simply because it doesn’t hurt — and that can snowball into major complications. That’s why we stress daily foot checks; it gives patients a sense of control.”

Over time, neuropathy symptoms may change. Here’s what the American Diabetes Association says to watch for:

• Tingling, sharp or burning feeling, sometimes worse at night
• Numbness or a reduced ability to feel pain
• Decreased ability to feel temperature changes
• Dry or cracked skin
• Muscle weakness
• Foot ulcers
• Infections
• Changes in foot shape
• Bone or joint damage

What Causes Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy doesn’t just “happen.” It develops gradually when blood sugar levels stay too high for too long.

“Chronically high blood sugar is toxic to nerves, but it’s not the only factor,” Dr. Grundy said.

People who do not have diabetes can get this condition, as well.

“We also see faster progression in people who smoke, have high blood pressure or struggle with cholesterol,” Dr. Grundy said. “It’s really the combination of risks that does the most damage.”

Can You Prevent Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?

If you have diabetes, you can protect yourself against diabetic peripheral neuropathy by keeping your blood sugar in your target range, following a healthy diet and exercising regularly.

“Think of prevention as building daily habits,” Dr. Grundy said. “Blood sugar monitoring, a balanced diet, exercise and regular foot care all work together. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does have to be consistent.”

It’s also essential to take good care of your feet. Check your feet daily, including the bottoms, toes and toenails. Doing so helps catch minor problems early before they turn serious. If you see any cuts, scrapes or wounds, see your primary care doctor or diabetes specialist.

The American Diabetes Association offers these additional tips to protect your feet:

• Moisturize your skin (but not between the toes)
• Never walk barefoot (including indoors)
• Wear properly fitting footwear
• Don’t use corn plasters or wart removal medicine
• Don’t soak your feet in water or with Epsom salt
• Check the water temperature of the tub or shower with your elbow before entering (water should not be extremely hot)

Be sure to request a foot exam at every doctor visit.

Can You Reverse Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?

Unfortunately, there is no way to stop or reverse diabetic peripheral neuropathy once it starts. Neuropathy treatment focuses on easing symptoms and slowing the disease.

“We want to improve the quality of life,” Dr. Grundy said. “That might mean using medications such as antidepressants or anti-seizure medications to relieve the pain. Or topical treatments like medicated creams or patches to ease discomfort. But the bigger picture is ongoing follow-up — working together to prevent further nerve damage.”