Older man suffering with nerve pain in the hand and arms
By Dr. Bussell - March 28, 2017

It’s all too familiar — that tingling, burning or stabbing sensation — in your legs and feet (maybe even your arms and hands) due to diabetic nerve pain.

Let’s not forget that nerve pain is caused by a lack of blood flow to the heart, essentially creating little to no circulation in targeted areas such as our hands and feet.

Did You Know?

About 70 percent of people with diabetes experience some kind of nerve pain. The more alarming truth is that an estimated 86 million people have prediabetes, and 90 percent of them don’t know they have it.

Nerve damage can happen at any time and anywhere in the body for diabetic patients. In fact, one nerve or a group of nerves can be affected causing muscle weakness or pain. Hips and thighs can be exposed to nerve damage leading to weakness in the legs, ultimately making it hard to stand or move.

One of the leading causes can be traced to high blood sugar. You’ve likely heard it once or twice that too much sugar is a bad thing. It can lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and other complications such as nerve pain.

Diabetic nerve pain typically starts in the toes and feet. Perhaps, you’re feeling it now — pins and needles, burning or sharp feeling — and that’s from just standing up.

Though the discomfort is common, it doesn’t have to be an option.

Here’s Why

If you’re living with diabetes and suffering from nerve pain in one part of your body or throughout, it’s important to seek treatment. Your doctor may recommend a healthier diet or active lifestyle that includes swimming, stretching and walking (if able to) on a regular basis. Don’t be afraid to experiment with a vegan diet that includes foods without gluten.

Additionally, you may benefit from Intraneural Facilitation or INF™. INF™ is a treatment that uses three hold positions to open your arteries in specific areas to improve blood flow.

If you know a friend or family member who may be living with prediabetes, encourage them to take the Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test. Earlier detection leads to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Together we can combat diabetes and its unnerving nerve pain that comes with it! 

Take the Next Step

If you’re suffering from nerve pain, our Neuropathic Therapy Center may be able to help using a breakthrough physical therapy treatment called Intraneural Facilitation or INF.™ For more information and to schedule an evaluation, call 909-558-6799 or request information online.

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