One of the most common and painful complications of diabetes is neuropathy, a type of nerve damage caused by chronic high blood sugar. More than 50% of diabetes patients develop diabetic neuropathy, meaning it affects around 19.2 million Americans.
November is National Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about the complications of diabetes and the importance of managing blood sugar. At Advanced Pain Management, we help patients with diabetic neuropathy reduce pain, protect nerve health, and improve their quality of life.
Diabetic neuropathy develops when long-term high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels that supply your nerves. This loss of blood flow and oxygen causes the nerves to malfunction. Diabetic neuropathy has several forms, including:
The most common type of diabetic neuropathy, this disease’s symptoms often start gradually and may include:
Because neuropathy can reduce your ability to feel pain, even a small cut or blister can turn into a serious infection if unnoticed. That’s why early detection and care are critical.
Mononeuropathy involves damage to a single nerve, often causing sudden pain or weakness in one area, such as the face, leg, or hand.
Also called diabetic amyotrophy, this type affects nerves in the hips, thighs, or buttocks, leading to severe pain, muscle weakness, and weight loss on one side of the body.
Autonomic neuropathy impacts the nerves controlling involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion, and bladder control, which can lead to dizziness, digestive issues, or difficulty sensing low blood sugar.
While diabetic neuropathy isn’t curable, certain lifestyle habits can slow its progression and ease symptoms.
Keeping blood sugar within your target range is the most critical step in preventing further nerve damage. Regular monitoring, taking prescribed medications, and following your diabetes management plan make a significant difference.
A balanced diet helps stabilize blood sugar and support nerve health. Focus on:
A registered dietitian can tailor a plan that fits your lifestyle and health goals.
Physical activity improves circulation, reduces blood sugar levels, and boosts nerve health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, most days of the week. However, if you have foot numbness or open sores, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise plan.
Since neuropathy often affects the feet first, daily foot care is essential. Inspect your feet for cuts, blisters, or color changes. Wear comfortable shoes, ensure your feet are clean and dry, and see a podiatrist regularly to prevent complications.
Smoking reduces blood flow to the nerves, worsening symptoms. Alcohol can also damage nerves and make pain harder to manage. Quitting smoking and consuming alcohol in moderation (or not at all) can improve circulation and nerve function.
The best approach often combines medications, advanced therapies, and ongoing support. Treatments that can relieve neuropathic pain and protect nerve health include:
A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise plan to improve strength, balance, and coordination. This reduces fall risk and helps patients stay active despite neuropathic symptoms.
Medications that reduce neuropathic pain include:
We recommend options based on your symptoms, tolerance, and other health conditions.
Nerve block injections deliver an anesthetic (sometimes with anti-inflammatory medication) directly to the affected nerves, reducing pain and inflammation. Nerve blocks can provide relief for several weeks or even months and may form part of a broader pain management plan.
For more severe neuropathy, PNS can offer long-term relief. An implanted device sends mild electrical pulses to affected nerve clusters, blocking pain signals before they reach the brain. PNS helps patients who don’t respond to other treatments regain mobility and reduce their need for pain medications.
While diabetic neuropathy can be challenging, it doesn’t have to control your life. Combining healthy lifestyle choices with modern pain management techniques can greatly improve comfort and mobility.
Contact Advanced Pain Management online or by phone to explore the latest treatments and learn how to manage diabetic neuropathy more effectively. Our Phoenix and Tucson offices serve Mesa, Tucson, Surprise, Downtown Phoenix, Chandler, Metro/Peoria, Avondale, and Glendale, Arizona.
