Recognizing Signs of Neuropathy
At Caring Podiatry, we want our Monmouth and Middlesex County patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes to be on the lookout for signs of neuropathy (nerve damage) which is commonly associated with this disease. In fact, significant clinical neuropathy can develop within the first 10 years after a diabetes diagnosis. The longer you have diabetes the greater your risk for neuropathy. Your nerves play a significant role in your feet including sensory, motor, and autonomic functions. Some signs of neuropathy include:
Decreased or lost sensation in your toes and feet
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet
Dry skin caused by decreased oil secretion
Foot pain
For up to half of patients with diabetes, however, neuropathy develops with no recognizable symptoms.
The Dangers of Neuropathy
Why does neuropathy pose such a threat to diabetic patients? Another condition that commonly accompanies this disease is poor circulation. This is why wounds and ulcers are so concerning because inadequate blood flow can impede healing and lead to infection and amputation. Neuropathy can decrease your ability to detect an injury, rash, or other problem that can lead to an infection or wound in a timely manner. This is why it is recommended that diabetic patients keep their feet covered and check them daily for any troubling symptoms.
Early Testing and Treatment is Key
The American Diabetes Association recommends sudomotor function assessment of small fiber testing to detect peripheral neuropathy in patients diagnosed with diabetes and prediabetes. We now offer this service which is covered by most insurances in our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) and our Neptune (732-455-8700) offices. Early detection of this potential complication of diabetes increases the potential for reducing and delaying the progression of diabetes. Sudomotor testing involves stimulating the sweat glands and dysfunction in this area is one of the earliest detectable neurophysiologic abnormalities. The test is non-invasive, quick, and painless. It is also covered by insurance.
If the potential for neuropathy is detected, our podiatrists, Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari can provide therapy at a much earlier stage than has been available in the past. This, combined with properly controlling blood sugar levels may prevent the development of neuropathy. Part of the therapy we recommend consists of alternative medicines which are designed to treat the underlying causes of neuropathy versus masking the symptoms. Prescription options for neuropathy are designed for symptom control, not to improve nerve health, and many have significant side effects. Our medical grade supplements improve blood flow, decrease oxidative stress, and repair damaged nerves, all without the side effects of the prescription products. Some of these include alpha-lipoic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, and St. John’s Wort, among others. We employ a proprietary combination of L-methyl folate, methylcobalamin, and benfotiamine for the management of peripheral neuropathy.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or prediabetes contact us to find out if testing for neuropathy can help you.
