Neuropathy

Understanding Diabetic Neuropathy and the Feet

Get Information and Treatments for Diabetic Neuropathy from the Experts at Foot Solutions

One quarter of the people living in America suffer from a foot condition called Diabetic Neuropathy.

About Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the nerves. The most common type of Diabetic Neuropathy is called peripheral neuropathy and affects the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that go out from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles, skin, internal organs, and glands. Peripheral neuropathy impairs proper functioning of these sensory and motor nerves. The most common symptoms of Neuropathy include numbness and loss of feeling, usually in the feet and hands.

Complications of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic Neuropathy can cause insensitivity or a loss of ability to feel pain, heat, and cold. Diabetics suffering from Diabetic Neuropathy can develop minor cuts, scrapes, blisters, or pressure sores that they may not be aware of due to insensitivity in their feet. If these minor injuries are left untreated, complications may result and lead to ulceration -- and possibly even amputation.

Neuropathy can also cause deformities such as:

• Bunions
• Hammer Toes
• Charcot Feet

It is very important for diabetics to take the necessary precautions to prevent all foot related injuries. Due to the consequences of Diabetic Neuropathy, daily observation of the feet is critical. When a diabetic patient takes the necessary preventative foot care measures, it reduces the risk of developing serious foot conditions.

Treatment and Prevention of Diabetic Neuropathy

The most successful way to prevent Diabetic Neuropathy from occurring is to control your diabetes. It is important to maintain blood sugars at normal levels and maintain normal blood pressure. Other recommendations to help prevent Diabetic Neuropathy include:

• Stop smoking
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink
• Have regular physical exams
• Have regular blood and urine tests
• Exercise regularly, according to your doctor's recommendation.

It is important for diabetics with Diabetic Neuropathy to take the necessary precautions to prevent injury and keep their feet healthy. Foot Solutions offers a variety of Neuropathy products as well as wellness footwear to treat your feet. Make your appointment at any Foot Solutions today for a free fitting and digital analysis.