Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition where diabetics have unbalanced levels of blood sugar within the body resulting in nerve damage. This nerve damage then causes numbness or weakness in the limbs. Symptoms of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy include numbness, tingling, cold-feeling, burning, and stabbing pains in the legs, hands, feet, arms and affects the sensory connection the brain has with the body. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is most often seen in middle-aged patients, between the ages of 50-60 years old. The most common mistake that patients make at this age is thinking that the numbness is a part of the aging process and not part of their diabetic condition. Treatment is very important as this condition can be life-threatening if one receives a cut, ulcer or infection when a numb limb is present.

Treatments may include pain relievers, anti-seizure medications, topical treatments, and antidepressants. Exercise can also lower blood sugar levels and muscle weakness by slowly building up a person’s muscles to normalcy.

At Center for Spine & Orthopedics, Dr. Leo specializes in advanced treatment in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. For more information on treatment, click here to contact us and schedule an appointment.