Diabetic peripheral neuropathy ; Causes, symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

🧠 Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN): A Common Yet Complex Complication

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is the most prevalent form of diabetic neuropathy, affecting up to 50% of people with diabetes over time2. It results from chronic hyperglycemia damaging peripheral nerves—especially in the feet, legs, hands, and arms—and can lead to pain, numbness, weakness, and serious complications like ulcers and amputations2.

🔍 Key Symptoms
Numbness or tingling (“pins and needles”) in feet or hands

Burning or stabbing pain, often worse at night

Loss of sensation—increases risk of unnoticed injuries

Muscle weakness and balance issues

Foot deformities (e.g., Charcot foot, hammertoes)

Slow-healing wounds or ulcers24

🧪 Causes & Risk Factors
Prolonged high blood sugar damages nerve fibers and blood vessels

Poor glycemic control, long duration of diabetes

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity

Smoking, kidney disease, genetic predisposition2

🧠 Diagnosis
Clinical foot exams: Monofilament testing, vibration perception

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG)

Screening recommended annually for type 2 diabetes and after 5 years for type 12

💊 Treatment & Management
Tight blood sugar control is the cornerstone

Medications for pain relief:

Pregabalin, gabapentin, duloxetine

Capsaicin patches or topical agents

Physical therapy for mobility and strength

Foot care education to prevent ulcers and infections

Special footwear for protection and pressure relief

#neuropathy

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