How can pain be a gift? Pain is an indicator that we are injuring our bodies. As the symptoms of Diabetes progress patients gradually lose this gift of pain. This condition is referred to as Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy. Simply, this is the loss of sensation in the feet. Those with Diabetes may not have feeling as well as they did 5, 10 or 20 years ago. As a result of this sensory deficit, diabetic patients may not feel that they are injuring their feet.

They may not feel if they step on objects at home. They may not feel the temperature of the hot water in their foot soaks. They may not feel their foot rubbing inside their shoes. Because of this lack of feeling, they continue their activity and continue the injury process. Sometimes these injuries are minor and manifest themselves as redness over a prominent area or the thickening of the skin to protect itself by forming a callus.

Often though these injuries may not be minor and may lead to burns or even ulcers of the feet. Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy is a serious problem. Common early symptoms are the sensations of numbness, tingling and burning of the hands and feet. Every Diabetic patient should be evaluated for this condition. The screening for this condition is simple and can be done in any Doctors office. This is a painless test. It is done with an instrument referred to as a Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament. This is similar to a fishing line. It is placed on 10 specific locations of the foot and the patient is asked whether they feel it or not. If it is not felt, then Sensory Neuropathy must be considered. There is currently no treatment to reverse this condition. Symptoms can be managed by first controlling the disease of Diabetes.

Medications like Lyrica also have been approved by the FDA as treatments for the symptoms of this condition. Vitamin supplements have also been found to be very successful in the management of these symptoms. Products like Neuremedy contain the vitamin Thiamine which has been shown to nourish damaged nerves allowing them to function better. Other topical products like Corganics Cream can provide relief to patients suffering from the symptoms of Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy. All patients suffering from this condition should have their shoes evaluated. Shoes, more importantly improperly fitted shoes, are one of the leading causes of complications from this condition. The width and height of the shoe “toe box” are very important.

Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for Diabetic Extra Depth Shoes. Many insurance companies, including Medicare, will pay for these. Properly fitted shoes will significantly decrease the risk of complication from Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy. Finally, all patients with this condition should see a Podiatrist. Your Podiatrist will be a life long partner and resource to educate, care for, and prevent the complications of this condition.

We at Podiatry Inc. are committed to being this partner and resource. We take this relationship very seriously. We are dedicated to exceeding your expectations.