diabetes and neuropathy

If you have diabetes, there’s an increased risk that you may also have a condition known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which is a form of nerve damage. The cause? A high blood sugar level is the most common culprit. For most patients, nerve damage occurs in their legs and feet. The doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group can help with treatment and prevention.

Signs of peripheral neuropathy

While there are different types of neuropathies, the peripheral form is the most common for patients with diabetes. Here are a few symptoms that may appear in your feet and ankles:

  • Numbness
  • Tingling or burning
  • Sharp pain
  • Decreasing ability to detect pain or temperature changes (sharp objects, hot water, etc.)

High-risk habits

What are some things that can increase your risk? A diabetes diagnosis is one example. Here are others:

  • High blood sugar levels
  • Being overweight
  • Smoking
  • Having kidney disease

Prevention tips

Daily foot checks, blood sugar management, and check-ins with a podiatrist are among the best ways for prevention and early detection. If you have more than one risk factor, add a podiatrist to your care team.

  • Check your feet daily
  • Moisturize your feet to prevent skin cracking and cuts
  • Wear shoes with support and cushion
  • Maintain healthy blood sugar levels
  • Choose a healthy diet

Complications

There are many concerns with nerve damage. One includes the amputation of a toe, a foot, or a leg. We recommend staying connected with your podiatrist and checking in regularly to communicate any concerns.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.