What is Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a type of nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels. It most often affects the hands, legs and feet, leading to numbness, tingling, pain, weakness and loss of coordination. Over time, DPN can also contribute to back pain and even organ damage if left untreated.
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More than half of people with diabetes develop some form of nerve damage. DPN is the most common, and it can greatly affect daily activities and quality of life if not properly managed.
What causes diabetic neuropathy?
The primary cause of diabetic neuropathy is uncontrolled or poorly managed diabetes. Consistently high blood sugar damages the nerves and blood vessels that supply them. Other contributing factors include:
- Kidney disease
- Thyroid disorders
- Smoking
- Physically demanding work that increases stress on the nerves
- Obesity and poor circulation
What are the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy?
Symptoms of DPN vary but often include:
- Numbness or tingling in feet, legs or hands
- Burning, stabbing or shooting pain in the legs or feet
- Muscle weakness or cramping
- Sensitivity to touch or cold
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Back pain linked to nerve damage
- Digestive issues (bloating, diarrhea, constipation, nausea) in some cases
In severe cases, untreated DPN can lead to ulcers, infections or loss of limb function.
Can diabetes cause back pain?
Yes. While many people experience back pain unrelated to diabetes, DPN can directly cause or worsen back pain. Nerve damage from high blood sugar can lead to pain that mimics sciatica, with symptoms radiating from the lower back into the legs and feet.
Distinguishing between diabetic neuropathy and sciatica requires a thorough medical evaluation.
Who is at higher risk of developing DPN?
Anyone with diabetes can develop neuropathy, but risks increase if you have:
- Long-term or poorly controlled diabetes (hyperglycemia)
- Kidney disease requiring dialysis
- A physically demanding job that stresses nerves and muscles
- A history of smoking, which reduces blood flow to the nerves
- Older age or long-standing diabetes
How is diabetic peripheral neuropathy treated?
While there is no cure for DPN, symptoms can be managed and progression slowed with proper care. Treatment may include:
- Blood sugar management through diet, exercise and medications
- Pain medications (NSAIDs, antidepressants, anticonvulsants or topical creams)
- Steroid injections for localized back pain relief
- Physical therapy to improve strength, balance and mobility
- Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy weight
What advanced treatments are available for DPN pain?
One promising option for patients with diabetic nerve pain is spinal cord stimulation (SCS). SCS involves implanting a small device under the skin that sends mild electrical signals to the spinal cord. These signals interfere with pain pathways, reducing nerve pain.
SCS is FDA-approved for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and has been used successfully for decades to treat chronic back, leg and foot pain.
How can patients live better with DPN?
Education and proactive management are key. Patients can reduce the impact of DPN by:
- Monitoring blood sugar consistently
- Maintaining good foot care to prevent ulcers and infections
- Staying active with safe exercise
- Seeking medical attention early for new or worsening symptoms
Get Treatment for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy at OrthoNebraska
Do you need relief from diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we understand that every patient’s experience is unique. Our care team works with you to create a personalized treatment plan focused on managing your symptoms, improving your quality of life and helping you stay active.
