The Link Between Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and Nerve Pain

As many as half (maybe more) of people with diabetes develop peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain). It usually occurs in the feet first, but it’s a progressive condition that can also cause symptoms traveling up the legs and may develop in the hands and arms.

One of our many specialties at Advanced Pain Management in Castro Valley, California, is diagnosing and treating peripheral neuropathy, including neuropathy related to diabetes.

Read more about DPN from our team, led by pain management specialist Dr. Ravi Panjabi, and how we can help.

Understanding diabetic peripheral neuropathy and nerve pain

DPN is a type of peripheral nerve damage that occurs in individuals with diabetes. Chronically high blood sugar levels associated with poorly controlled diabetes can damage nerves throughout the body, but DPN most commonly affects the nerves in the legs and feet.

Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is a common symptom of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Damaged or malfunctioning nerves can send incorrect signals to the brain.

With diabetic peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage disrupts the normal functioning of sensory nerves, leading to tingling, numbness, and pain even without an external stimulus.

For instance, you may feel a burning or electric shock-type pain in the toes, feet, and lower legs that can come and go but tends to become more frequent as the damage progresses. Many patients with DPN sense they’re wearing socks or gloves when their hands and feet are bare.

How diabetes damages nerves

Several issues contribute to diabetic peripheral neuropathy, including:

Hyperglycemia

High levels of glucose in the blood can damage nerves directly through a process called glycation. That can impair nerve function and lead to the sensation of pain.

Inflammation

Chronic inflammation associated with diabetes can also contribute to nerve damage and pain. Inflammatory processes can disrupt nerve signaling and increase sensitivity to pain.

Reduced blood flow

Diabetes can damage blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow to nerves. This diminished blood supply deprives nerves of oxygen and nutrients, contributing to nerve damage and pain.

Changes in nerve structure

Over time, the structure of nerves affected by diabetic peripheral neuropathy can change, including thickening of the nerve fibers. These structural alterations can further disrupt nerve function and contribute to the perception of pain.

Nutritional deficiencies

Diabetes can disrupt the balance of proteins and other nutrients that support nerve growth and survival, leading to nerve damage and pain.

Treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy

Managing nerve pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy requires a comprehensive approach that Dr. Panjabi develops based on your initial evaluation.

Effective treatment strategies may include:

Improved blood sugar control

Tight control of blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, medication, and insulin therapy can help prevent further nerve damage and alleviate symptoms.

Medication

Medications such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and analgesics can help manage nerve pain. These medications work by modulating nerve signaling and reducing pain perception.

Lifestyle modifications

Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise can help improve blood flow and nerve function, reducing the severity of symptoms.

Proper support

Measures such as wearing comfortable shoes, practicing good foot care, and using orthotic devices can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications like foot ulcers and infections.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Panjabi at Advanced Pain Management today for comprehensive care that reduces your symptoms and improves your overall quality of life.