Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a common and serious diabetes complication. Many people are unaware of it until symptoms become severe. According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), diabetic neuropathy can lead to loss of protective sensation in the feet, increasing the risk of injury, ulceration, and amputation if not managed properly (NICE, 2015). The good news is that with the right care and early intervention, serious foot problems can be prevented.
This article explains what diabetic neuropathy is, how it affects your feet, the warning signs to watch out for, and how to protect your feet using best practices guided by the latest NICE recommendations.
What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels. It is common in people with diabetes, especially if blood sugar is not well controlled. Neuropathy most often affects the feet and legs. It can cause symptoms like pain, tingling, numbness, or a loss of feeling (NICE, 2015).
Why It’s Important to Understand Neuropathy
When nerve damage occurs, it can lead to serious complications. Without feeling in your feet, you might not notice cuts, blisters, or infections. This can result in more serious issues, including ulcers and infections, which may require treatment like amputation if not caught early.
Understanding diabetic neuropathy helps you take steps to prevent these complications. The good news is that there are ways to manage the condition and keep your feet healthy.
Signs of Diabetic Neuropathy
People with diabetic neuropathy often don’t feel pain or discomfort because the nerves that normally send pain signals are damaged. This is why regular foot checks are so important. Some common signs of nerve damage include:
- Tingling or burning sensations in the feet
- Numbness, especially in the toes or soles
- Pain or sharp discomfort in your feet or legs, even without obvious injury
- Difficulty walking or feeling unbalanced
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical assistance.
According to NICE guidelines, anyone with these symptoms should undergo monofilament testing or vibration perception testing to assess the degree of sensory loss (NICE, 2015).
How Diabetic Neuropathy Can Affect Your Feet
With neuropathy, you might not feel cuts, blisters, or sores on your feet. This is dangerous because untreated wounds can become infected. Over time, poor circulation can also slow healing. In some cases, this may lead to foot ulcers or more serious complications like gangrene, requiring amputation.
For those with neuropathy, the feet become more vulnerable to damage. A small injury can turn into something much more serious if not treated quickly. This is why foot care is critical.
How to Prevent or Slow Down Diabetic Neuropathy
Taking steps to prevent or manage diabetic neuropathy is crucial for maintaining foot health and overall well-being. Here’s how you can protect yourself:
Daily Foot Care
- Wash your feet daily in warm (not hot) water.
- Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Apply moisturiser, but avoid the areas between your toes.
- Check your feet daily for cuts, blisters, swelling, or changes in colour.
Wear the Right Footwear
- Choose shoes that fit well and protect your feet.
- Avoid walking barefoot, even at home.
- Wear seamless socks made of breathable materials.
Regular Check-Ups
- See a podiatrist at least once a year — or more often if you’re at high risk.
- Get a professional foot check to detect problems early.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels consistently.
Manage Your Diabetes
- Take medications as prescribed and attend your GP or diabetes nurse appointments.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Stay active with regular, low-impact exercise like walking or swimming.
Diabetic neuropathy may sound alarming, but it’s a condition you can manage with knowledge, action, and support.
The earlier it’s recognised and addressed, the better the outcomes. Routine foot checks, good blood sugar control, and working closely with your healthcare team are your best tools in preventing complications.
💡 Not sure what to look for? Book a foot check today — we’re here to help you stay on your feet, safely.
Foot health is a cornerstone of independence and quality of life—don’t ignore your feet, care for them daily.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, don’t wait. Book an appointment today to discuss the best care plan for your feet.
