Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common complications of diabetes, affecting up to 50% of people with diabetes during their lifetime. This condition develops when long-term high blood sugar damages the nerves, often starting in the feet and legs. Left untreated, it can cause pain, numbness, and serious foot complications that affect mobility and overall health.
At Proactive Podiatry, led by Dr. Latika Hinduja, DPM, we specialize in diabetic foot and ankle care in Monaca and Wexford, PA. Our team provides comprehensive podiatric care, including preventive screenings, diabetic foot exams, custom orthotics, wound care, advanced regenerative therapies, and podiatry urgent care for conditions such as infected ingrown toenails or non-healing wounds.
In this article, we’ll break down what diabetic neuropathy is, common symptoms, why early care matters, how it affects your feet, and how podiatrists help create effective treatment plans.
1. What Is Diabetic Neuropathy and How Does It Develop?
Diabetic neuropathy definition: It is a type of nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar levels. Over time, elevated glucose weakens the small blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to nerves. As these nerves lose function, they become less able to send signals to the brain and body.
There are several forms, but the most common is type 2 diabetes peripheral neuropathy, which typically affects the feet and legs first. Other types include autonomic neuropathy (impacting internal organs), proximal neuropathy (causing weakness in thighs and hips), and mononeuropathy (isolated nerve damage).
While diabetic neuropathy can’t be reversed, early diagnosis and proactive management slow progression and reduce complications.
2. Common Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are affected. In the feet, patients often notice:
- Numbness or tingling that makes it difficult to sense temperature or pain.
- Burning or stabbing pain that may worsen at night.
- Muscle weakness leading to instability when walking.
- Loss of sensation, which increases the risk of unnoticed injuries or wounds.
Beyond the feet, diabetic neuropathy symptoms may include dizziness, digestive changes, bladder problems, or sexual dysfunction. These symptoms underscore the wide-ranging nature of this condition and emphasize the importance of not ignoring subtle changes in sensation.
3. Why Early Detection and Management Are Essential
The sooner diabetic neuropathy is identified, the better the chances of preventing long-term complications. Because nerve damage develops gradually, many patients don’t notice problems until they become advanced.
Early diagnosis allows podiatrists to:
- Detect foot ulcers or wounds before they become infected.
- Recommend footwear or orthotics to reduce pressure on sensitive areas.
- Provide therapies to manage pain and improve circulation.
- Teach patients self-care techniques to prevent injuries.
At Proactive Podiatry, we use thorough diabetic foot exams, digital imaging, and advanced diagnostics to create individualized treatment plans.
4. How Diabetic Neuropathy Affects Foot Health and Mobility
Feet are especially vulnerable because they carry body weight and are furthest from the central nervous system. With neuropathy:
- Loss of feeling means patients may not notice cuts, blisters, or ingrown toenails.
- Slow healing increases the risk of infection.
- Structural changes, such as Charcot foot, may cause deformity if left untreated.
- Balance issues from weakened muscles or numbness raise fall risk.
For many patients, foot complications are the most serious consequence of diabetic neuropathy. They can lead to ulcers, repeated infections, and even amputation if not treated promptly. This is why regular podiatric checkups are vital for anyone living with diabetes.
5. The Role of Podiatrists in Creating a Care Plan
A podiatrist plays a crucial role in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. At Proactive Podiatry, our care plans may include:
- Routine diabetic foot exams to detect nerve damage early.
- Custom orthotics and diabetic shoes to reduce pressure and protect vulnerable areas.
- Wound care for ulcers or sores, helping them heal faster and preventing infection.
- SoftWave therapy and physical therapy for pain relief and tissue healing.
- Education on daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, and choosing safe footwear.
In addition, we provide podiatry urgent care for conditions that require immediate attention, such as infected ingrown toenails, sudden swelling, or wounds that are not healing. Same-day appointments are often available to prevent complications from progressing.
Protecting Your Feet for the Future
Diabetic neuropathy is a serious but manageable condition. By learning the signs, acting early, and working with a podiatrist, you can protect your feet, preserve mobility, and reduce your risk of complications. At Proactive Podiatry, Dr. Latika Hinduja and her team provide advanced diabetic foot care in Monaca and Wexford, PA, combining preventive screenings, urgent podiatry services, and innovative therapies like SoftWave and regenerative treatments.
Don’t wait until symptoms worsen — call us at (724) 775-6168 or Book Your Appointment Online today to take proactive steps for healthier feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetic neuropathy?
t’s nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar, most often affecting the feet and legs.
What are the main diabetic neuropathy symptoms?
Numbness, tingling, burning pain, weakness, and loss of sensation in the feet.
How is diabetic neuropathy treated?
Treatment includes blood sugar control, podiatric care, custom orthotics, wound care, SoftWave therapy, and regenerative stem cell therapy.
Can type 2 diabetes peripheral neuropathy be prevented?
Maintaining healthy blood sugar, regular exercise, and podiatric checkups helps lower risk.
When should I see a podiatrist?
If you notice burning pain, numbness, slow-healing wounds, or frequent foot problems, schedule an appointment promptly.
