MD Podiatrist Discusses Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Numbness and tingling in the feet is a common and concerning symptom of diabetes. “More than 30 million Americans are living with diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage in the feet, is one of the most common-and most serious-complications of the disease,” says podiatrist Dan Michaels, DPM. “Nerve damage causes burning, tingling, heaviness, or numbness in the feet and affects up to 70 percent of all diabetic patients. Neuropathy can be a rather scary aspect of diabetes because patients may not be able to feel pain. If you can’t feel an injury or sore, it could lead to a serious infection.”
 
Experiencing nerve damage means people with diabetes must take extra care to not get injured. “If you do experience diabetic nerve damage, foot care becomes even more critical. It starts at home with daily checks on your feet,” Dr. Michaels says. “Check your feet for any injuries and for changes to the skin, hair, or even temperature of the skin. If you can’t see your feet well, try propping up a mirror, or ask friends or family for help. I recommend patients with peripheral neuropathy never go barefoot because of the risk of injuries. People with peripheral neuropathy should see a podiatrist regularly to help catch any changes in their foot health early.”