Diabetes and Your Feet: Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy - What is it?

Diabetes can cause many effects within your body. The main one that affects the feet and lower legs is diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). There is often pain, burning, tingling, pins and needles and even complete numbness. It is estimated that over 50% of diabetics have some form of peripheral neuropathy but many do not have any symptoms. You are more likely to have DPN and the more severe the symptoms tend to be the longer you have diabetes, if you are overweight and if you are over the age of 40. Poor glucose levels will also affect the onset and severity of DPN, which ultimately will make walking difficult, if not impossible.

Why do I have numbness and tingling in my feet?

Numbness and tingling is a common symptom of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). The symptoms are usually worse when your glucose level is high. Many diabetics have trouble sleeping as the tingling may keep them awake at night.

How is diabetic peripheral neuropathy treated?

Peripheral neuropathy is one of the most challenging conditions to treat and these patients are becoming an increasingly larger proportion of medical practices. Sometimes patients feel the “cure” is worse than the disease. Research tells us that we need to prescribe Drugs, Drugs and more Drugs. The common types of drugs used include:

• Anti-depressants
• Pain Medications
• Anticonvulsants

I have chosen to offer a selection of non-drug options to my clients.

These include:

1) Medical Foods

• Neuremedy (Henning – link to neuremedy video I sent you)
• Metanx

2) Topical Preparations

• Biofreeze spray
• Neuragen

3) Light Therapy

• Magnetic Bio Stimulation
• Annodyne / Revitamed

4) TENS

5) Physiotherapy

Why is it important to maintain a proper glucose level?

Maintaining a proper glucose level is critical. This will allow your body to function more efficiently and will decrease the chance of you developing problems throughout your entire body from your head to your toes. Your eyes, cardio vascular system, kidneys and your feet will all benefits from proper glucose control.

What is checked during a Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Exam (CDFE)?

Below is a list of things that may be checked in your feet during your examination:

• 3 pedal pulses
• Capillary refill time
• Absence of hair growth
• Temperature
• Light touch sensation (using a small monofilament)
• Vibratory sensation (using a tuning fork)
• Proprioception
• Muscle strengths
• Reflexes
• Gait
• Balance
• Pressure points on the feet (using our iStep digital scanner)
• Footwear and inserts or orthotics
• Type of socks you wear

Previous Page Top Of Page