Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve-related condition caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage peripheral nerves, especially in the feet. This condition often develops gradually and can affect sensation, balance, and overall foot function. Reduced blood flow and metabolic changes contribute to nerve injury, making early detection important for preventing complications.
Common symptoms include tingling, burning, numbness, and sharp pain in the feet. Some individuals report weakness or a heavy feeling that affects walking. Loss of sensation is a serious concern, because it increases the risk of unnoticed injuries. Skin changes, temperature sensitivity, and delayed healing may also be present. These symptoms can vary in intensity and often worsen over time without proper care.
Risk factors include long-term diabetes, poor blood sugar control, and a sedentary lifestyle. Smoking and vascular disease can further reduce circulation, increasing nerve damage. The underlying cause involves both metabolic and vascular changes that impair nerve function. Over time, nerves lose their ability to send signals effectively, leading to the symptoms associated with neuropathy.
Low-level laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular repair and improve circulation. This therapy may help reduce pain, support nerve regeneration, and enhance tissue healing. Improved blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients that are essential for nerve health. Combined with proper foot care and glucose management, it can play a supportive role in treatment. If you are experiencing neuropathy from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of this type of therapy with you.
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 Christopher Murphy, DPM from Murphy Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery. Our practitioner 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:
- Numbness
- Sensation loss
- Prickling and tingling sensations
- Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
- Muscle weakness
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 our office located in Edgewater . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
