Diabetic neuropathy is the most common type of peripheral neuropathy. More than 34 million people have diabetes in the United States, and it is currently estimated that 50-70% of diabetics have some form of peripheral neuropathy. High blood sugar due to diabetes can cause damage to nerves throughout your body. Diabetic neuropathy most often injures the nerves in your legs and feet causing pain and numbness. Some people have mild symptoms, but others can have extremely painful and disabling conditions.
Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy usually progress slowly over time and you may not notice them until significant nerve damage has occurred. Symptoms can also appear suddenly causing muscle weakness, vision changes, digestive problems and sexual dysfunction.
The high blood sugar levels in diabetes damages your nerves and small blood vessels. This interferes with the ability of your nerves to send the correct signals causing pain, numbness, changes of sensation, weakness and other symptoms. Injury to your capillaries (small blood vessels) prevents the proper nutrients and oxygen from getting to your nerves and other tissues slowing healing and increasing damage.
Kidney damage that can result from diabetes can also add to nerve damage due to the toxins that dysfunctioning kidneys can let into the blood. Other factors that can contribute to symptoms include smoking, alcohol use nutritional deficiencies and medication.
Standard treatments can include pain medications, antidepressants, and medications for diabetes.
At Balanced Flow, we offer effective FDA-approved therapies to reduce or eliminate the pain and symptoms associated diabetic neuropathy. These therapies include
Treatment of diabetes and controlling blood sugar is also essential for maintaining long-term success. Call or text us at 312-766-6940 to schedule an appointment today and see if you would be a good candidate to be under our care.