Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetes and foot health: Preventing complications like peripheral neuropathy

Diabetes affects more than 29 million Americans, with 1.4 million new cases diagnosed each year, according to the American Diabetes Association. One of the most serious complications of diabetes is foot-related health issues, which can lead to ulcers, infections and, in severe cases, amputation. In fact, more than 73,000 amputations were performed in 2010 due to diabetes-related complications.

However, up to 85% of these amputations are preventable through early intervention, regular foot inspections and specialized diabetic foot care. Our experienced podiatrists provide preventive care, early treatment and management strategies to help you maintain optimal foot health and avoid serious complications.

Understanding peripheral neuropathy and its impact on your feet

One of the most common diabetes complications that can lead to amputation is peripheral neuropathy. This condition occurs when high blood sugar levels damage peripheral nerves, which are responsible for sending signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. When these nerves are affected, it can cause weakness, loss of sensation and difficulty controlling muscles—especially in the legs and feet.

Peripheral neuropathy impacts two key parts of the nervous system:

• Sensory Nerves – When sensory nerves are damaged, diabetics may lose feeling in their feet, making it difficult to detect injuries, blisters or ulcers. This loss of sensation can lead to serious infections if wounds go unnoticed.
• Autonomic Nerves – Damage to autonomic nerves can cause poor circulation and arterial calcification, increasing the risk of peripheral vascular disease (PVD). In more severe cases, this may require the care of a vascular surgeon.

Between 60% and 70% of people with diabetes will develop peripheral neuropathy, but the good news is that it is not inevitable. You can reduce your risk and prevent serious complications with the right care, routine checkups and proactive foot health management.

Recognizing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in the feet

Peripheral neuropathy develops gradually and can present with a variety of symptoms, including:

Early Symptoms:

• A sensation of wearing an extra sock when there’s nothing there
• Restless leg syndrome or an inability to stretch the feet
• A persistent tight feeling in the feet

Advanced Symptoms:

• Sharp, stabbing pains or burning sensations in the feet
• A crawling or tingling feeling, as if ants are moving on the skin
• Loss of sensation to heat, cold or pain, increasing the risk of foot injuries

If left untreated, numbness in the feet can lead to ulcers, infections and potential amputations. This is why it’s critical for diabetics to check their feet daily and schedule regular visits with a podiatrist.

How our podiatrists can help diabetic foot complications

Our podiatrists specialize in diabetic foot care and provide comprehensive treatment to prevent, manage, and slow the progression of peripheral neuropathy. While there is no cure for the condition, proper management can significantly improve your quality of life.

We offer:

• Routine Diabetic Foot Exams – Identifying early signs of nerve damage and addressing issues before they become serious
• Custom Shoe Inserts & Footwear Recommendations – Reducing pressure points and preventing ulcers
• Physical Therapy & Medication Management – Alleviating pain and improving mobility
• Wound Care & Ulcer Prevention – Helping to heal sores before they lead to infection Personalized Diabetes Management Strategies – Keeping blood sugar levels in check to prevent nerve damage

By prioritizing proactive foot care and regular checkups, you can avoid serious complications and maintain healthy, pain-free feet.