Diabetic neuropathy is a loss of feeling caused by nerve damage. Having high blood glucose for many years can damage the blood vessels that bring oxygen to the nerves. It can also damage the covering on the nerves. Damaged nerves may stop sending messages or may send messages too slowly or at the wrong times. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is the medical term for damage to the nervous system caused by diabetes.
The peripheral nerves direct brain signals to the arms, hands, legs, and feet. Damage to these nerves can make your appendages feel numb. Damage may also result in an inability to feel pain, heat, or cold. Shooting pains, burning or tingling (pins and needles), and dry skin may also result.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can also change the shape of the feet. Foot muscles may become weak and tendons in the foot can become shorter.
Prevent and Treat Diabetic Neuropathy
Always see a health care provider first for diabetic peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage treatment and prevention information. It is important to keep your blood glucose under control to help prevent diabetic neuropathy.
If damage to the nerves results in the inability to feel pain in the legs and feet, small injuries like blisters, scratches, corns, warts, calluses, nail problems, etc. can become major health care complications. It is important for people with diabetic neuropathy to begin a daily foot care routine, which involves checking the feet daily for injury.
Because diabetic peripheral neuropathy can change the shape of your feet, rather than forcing deformed feet and toes into regular shoes, ask a health care provider about special therapeutic shoes and diabetic socks designed for people with diabetic neuropathy.
Visit our diabetic foot care tips section to learn about the everyday things you can do to protect your feet against the potential health problems associated with diabetic neuropathy.
Health Resources Disclaimer
This is only general information and is not meant for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Always consult your physician or other health care provider about all health concerns, conditions, and recommended treatments.
