What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when any of the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord are damaged. It can be caused by traumatic injuries, infections or metabolic problems (like diabetes), inherited from a parent or exposure to toxins.
Three types of peripheral nerves
- Sensory nerves which transmit pain, temperature and vibration
- Motor nerves which control muscle movement
- Autonomic nerves that control body functions such as sweating, cardiovascular function, digestion and bladder.
Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy
Those who have this condition can report the following symptoms
- The gradual onset of numbness, or tingling in the feet or hands
- Burning sensation
- Sensitive to touch
- Lack of coordination, falling and muscle weakness
- Feeling like you are wearing a glove or sock
Diabetes and Neuropathy
Diabetics who have high blood sugar over and extended period of time risk onset of neuropathy due to the disease. More than 30% of diabetics have peripheral neuropathy to one degree or another.
If you or a love one are diabetic peripheral neuropathy can be prevented by managing the disease by eating right and monitoring blood sugar as instructed by your primary care physician or endocrinologist.
Podiatrist as a First Line of Defense
Seeing a podiatrist a minimum of yearly for Diabetic Footcare to monitor and protect your feet will go a long way toward preventing peripheral neuropathy or managing it and preventing further damage if it has already taken hold.