If you have diabetes, there’s a good chance you’ll develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes pain and can lead to loss of feeling in your feet. Attending regular diabetic foot exams at specialist podiatric clinic Dr. Simon Becker DPM is essential to maintain foot health when you have diabetes, and avoid the complications of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Dr. Simon Becker DPM has convenient locations in West Orange,and Elmwood Park, New Jersey, so call them today to schedule a consultation or book an appointment using the online form. (gabapentin)

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Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

What is diabetic peripheral neuropathy?

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves, usually in your hands, arms, legs, and feet. Most patients find it begins in their feet, causing symptoms such as:

  • Tingling
  • Pins and needles
  • Burning, stabbing, or shooting pain
  • Increased sensitivity
  • Pain during the night
  • Feet that feel very cold or hot
  • Numbness or weakness

Pain is often one of the first symptoms, but over time, that can change, so your feet start to become numb instead.

Why should I be concerned about diabetic peripheral neuropathy?

When you have diabetes, your circulation slows down, and your immune system isn’t as good at fighting off infections. If you also have diabetic peripheral neuropathy, you can lose the feeling in your feet, and you may not notice if you have an injury or infection because your brain isn’t receiving the right pain signals from the nerves in your feet.

Infections can set in through a wound or any kind of damage to the skin, for example, toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, or ingrown toenails can all make infections more likely.

If you have diabetic peripheral neuropathy, you’re not only more likely to incur an infection, but your body won’t be as effective at dealing with it because of your diminished circulation and suppressed immune system.

If you don’t realize you have an infection, it can spread into the bone or could develop into an ulcer, an open sore that can be very difficult to heal.

How is diabetic peripheral neuropathy treated?

If you receive a diabetic peripheral neuropathy diagnosis, the first step is making sure that you’re following an expertly designed program to manage your diabetes.

Failing to take actions such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and taking regular exercise can all make you more prone to developing complications such as diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Your podiatrist at Dr. Simon Becker DPM can also help by carrying out regular foot exams. It’s vital to have your feet checked if you have diabetic peripheral neuropathy because of the risk you won’t know you have an injury or infection.

Undergoing regular checkups throughout the year with your podiatrist not only prevents the more serious consequences of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but also helps improve your circulation and possibly even enhance your ability to exercise, walk, drive, work, and sleep more comfortably.

Your Dr. Simon Becker DPM podiatrist can also keep your toenails in good shape — so you avoid ingrown toenails — and treat any fungal conditions. If you have corns or warts, it’s always best to get your podiatrist to treat them for you instead of trying home remedies, because of the risk you could damage the skin on your feet and start-up an infection.

If you suffer from nerve entrapment, your podiatrist can explore ways to alleviate damaging pressure on the nerves. Special shoes and orthotics might also be beneficial in improving your balance and gait and helping prevent foot injuries.

You may benefit from a combination of the specialized podiatric treatments available at Dr. Simon Becker DPM for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, so call today to find out more, or book an appointment online.