You've noticed a tingling sensation in your toes that's been gradually spreading through your feet. Sometimes there's a sharp, shooting pain. Other times, your feet feel numb, and it's difficult to sense the ground beneath you as you walk. Could this be diabetic neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can cause significant discomfort, disability, and reduced quality of life if left unchecked. Knowing the warning signs and seeking prompt treatment from an Annapolis podiatrist are both essential for preventing the condition from progressing. At Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center, our team of board-certified podiatric surgeons has extensive experience helping patients manage diabetic neuropathy and maintain optimal foot health.
Keep reading to learn more about diabetic neuropathy symptoms and how our Annapolis podiatry practice can help you keep your feet as healthy as possible.
Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur in people with diabetes. Over time, high blood sugar levels damage the nerves, most often in the legs and feet. This can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications.
According to the American Diabetes Association, about half of people with diabetes have some form of nerve damage. However, not everyone experiences symptoms, especially in the early stages. That's why it's crucial for people with diabetes to have regular foot exams with a podiatrist, even if their feet feel fine.
At Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center, we specialize in diabetic foot care. Our podiatrists perform thorough neurological exams to check for signs of neuropathy and develop personalized treatment plans to help prevent the condition from worsening. We also educate our patients on proper at-home foot care to reduce the risk of complications.
Signs and Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy in the Feet
Diabetic neuropathy can cause a wide range of symptoms in the feet and legs. Some people experience only mild symptoms, while others have severe pain or numbness that interferes with daily activities. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Tingling or burning sensations: Often, one of the first signs of diabetic neuropathy is a "pins and needles" feeling in the toes or feet. This may come and go initially, but it tends to become more persistent over time. The sensation may spread to the ankles and legs as the neuropathy progresses.
- Numbness or reduced sensation: As nerve damage worsens, you may start to lose feeling in your feet. This can make it difficult to sense pressure, temperature, or pain. You might not realize if you have a cut, blister, or sore on your foot, increasing the risk of infection.
- Sharp, shooting pains: Diabetic neuropathy can cause sudden, sharp pains that feel like an electrical current. These pains often occur at night and can be severe enough to wake you from sleep.
- Muscle weakness: Damage to the motor nerves can cause muscle weakness in the feet and legs. This can lead to changes in how you walk and increase the risk of falls. You might also notice that your feet or toes are starting to curl or change shape.
- Increased sensitivity: In some cases, diabetic neuropathy can cause heightened sensitivity to touch. Even the lightest pressure from socks or bedsheets can feel painful. This is called allodynia.
- Loss of reflexes: Your podiatrist may check your ankle reflexes during an exam. Reduced or absent reflexes can be a sign of nerve damage.
- Autonomic symptoms: Diabetic neuropathy can affect the autonomic nerves that control functions like sweating and blood flow. You might notice that your feet feel cold or clammy or that the skin is dry and cracked. Poor circulation can also make it harder for diabetic foot wounds to heal.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, don't wait to seek care. The earlier diabetic neuropathy is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of preventing serious complications.
When to See an Annapolis Podiatrist for Diabetic Neuropathy
If you have diabetes, it's important to have regular check-ups with a podiatrist, even if you don't have any foot-related symptoms. The American Diabetes Association recommends a comprehensive foot exam at least once a year.
However, you should schedule an appointment with an Annapolis foot doctor sooner if you notice any of the following:
- Changes in sensation: If you start experiencing tingling, burning, numbness, or pain in your feet, it's important to get checked out. These changes in sensation could be early signs of neuropathy.
- Foot injuries: If you have a cut, blister, or other wounds on your foot that you can't feel or that aren't healing properly, see a podiatrist right away. People with diabetic neuropathy are at higher risk of developing infections.
- Changes in foot shape: If you notice that your feet or toes are changing shape, such as curling or hammering, this could be a sign of advanced neuropathy. A podiatrist can recommend treatments to help prevent further deformity.
- Balance problems: If you're having trouble with balance or you've fallen recently, it could be related to diabetic neuropathy. A podiatrist can assess your balance and gait and recommend strategies to help prevent falls.
- Difficulty walking: If foot pain or numbness makes it hard to walk or perform your usual activities, don't hesitate to seek care. A podiatrist can work with you to manage your symptoms and maintain your mobility.
Remember, even if your symptoms seem minor, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to diabetic foot health. Catching and treating neuropathy early can help prevent serious problems down the road.
Comprehensive Diabetic Foot Care at Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center
At Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center, we understand the challenges of managing diabetes and foot health. That's why we offer comprehensive diabetic foot care services to help our patients stay active and avoid complications. Our approach includes:
- Regular check-ups: We recommend that our diabetic patients come in for foot exams at least once a year, or more often if they have neuropathy or other risk factors. During these visits, we perform thorough neurological and circulatory assessments to catch any problems early.
- Education and prevention: We take the time to educate our patients on proper foot care techniques, such as inspecting the feet daily, wearing supportive shoes, and keeping the feet clean and dry. We also provide guidance on managing blood sugar levels to help prevent further nerve damage.
- Advanced treatments: If diabetic neuropathy progresses, we offer advanced treatments to help manage symptoms and prevent complications. This may include medications for pain relief, custom orthotics to redistribute pressure, and wound care to promote healing.
- Collaborative care: We work closely with our patients' primary care doctors, endocrinologists, and other specialists to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. If needed, we can also refer patients to our on-site Chesapeake Amputation Prevention Center for advanced diabetic wound management.
Living with diabetic neuropathy can be challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone. The team at Annapolis Foot & Ankle Center is here to provide the expert care and support you need to keep your feet as healthy as possible. We'll work with you to create a personalized plan to manage your neuropathy symptoms and maintain your quality of life.
