The high blood sugar level in the system of a diabetic patient takes a toll on systems and tissue throughout the body. As many as 50% of diabetics may experience some degree of nerve damage because of this, a condition called diabetic neuropathy.
Managing pain from diabetic neuropathy and slowing its progression are two key parts of diabetes management.
At Commonwealth Pain Management and Wellness, we specialize in the treatment of neuropathic pain. Add us to your diabetes management team when you need specialized care for your neuropathy.
Medical researchers believe that uncontrolled blood sugar damages nerve tissue, changing the way nerves function. High blood sugar also weakens the walls of blood vessels, so nerve damage could result from problems with blood supply.
Since nerves control muscle movement and automatic body systems as well as pain, you may experience different types of nerve damage. Most commonly, though, diabetic neuropathy affects the feet and legs.
Besides high blood sugar, other factors that increase your risk of developing neuropathy include:
Even if you have none of these risk factors other than diabetes itself, you remain at higher risk of developing neuropathy.
The severity of neuropathy pain varies. Some people may feel minor tingling and numbness while others suffer from extreme sensitivity to temperature extremes or touch. Pain can be achy or sharp, and muscle cramps could be a problem too.
Getting a handle on neuropathic pain and slowing its progression requires a multifaceted approach. Consider these options to add to your diabetes management program.
The most important part of treating and preventing diabetic neuropathy is control of blood sugar levels. This doesn’t always require insulin. There are other medications and lifestyle changes to bring your blood sugar under control. It’s the first step in mitigating any of the effects of diabetes.
Over-the-counter medications and topical products may be enough if your neuropathy is mild. We can add prescription-strength solutions if consumer products aren’t enough to manage your pain.
When prescription drugs aren’t enough, we may recommend solutions like nerve block injections, peripheral nerve stimulation, or spinal cord stimulation to change the way your body reports pain from affected nerves.
Contact Savitri Gopaul, FNP-BC, and our team at Commonwealth Pain Management and Wellness in Richmond, Virginia, to learn more about your options for diabetic neuropathy. Call or click to book your consultation today.
