Amputation is directly linked to neuropathy
What is neuropathy?
Neuropathy is the medical term for nerve damage. Nerves are essential to a functioning body because they carry signals throughout the body to and from the brain. For example, a person with sensory nerve damage might not be able to distinguish pain or feel any damage or wound on their body; or they might experience pain and tingling. The nerves also deliver messages that we are totally unaware of; those to the lungs and heart that tell them when to work and at what pace – this sort of case would be defined as autonomic nerve damage. Nerves also tell the muscles how/when to work, which allows us to walk or pick things up – damage here is motor nerve damage. The consequences of nerve damage can be serious.
Neuropathy and diabetes
Nerve damage is a common complication of diabetes. About half of all people with diabetes experience this at some stage – usually after a few years. Although there are different types of neuropathy, the most common form of nerve damage in diabetes is sensory; meaning the ability to feel. For example, it can affect the ability to feel pain and determine temperature. Issues for people with diabetes are normally focused around the foot and leg area. Most diabetes care teams have a ‘foot care’ division because of this. A major danger with this type of nerve damage is that often people cannot feel an open wound, which could then become infected and worsen. The most extreme consequence of this is amputation. Your care team will inform you of the dangers of nerve damage and recommend regular check-ups in the appropriate clinics.
Can I prevent neuropathy?
Much is still unknown about the development of neuropathy (nerve damage) and its relation to diabetes. We do know that high blood glucose levels are a factor in reducing the nerve function and the blood vessels function of carrying nutrients and oxygen to the nerves. This means that controlling your blood glucose levels is highly recommended as a preventative measure. All diabetic patients are recommended to minimize their risk of nerve damage and the consequences of it by:
- Maintaining a blood glucose level within the target range
- Performing a self examination on your feet daily
- Be cautious of certain exercises – always discuss with your care team to see what is suitable depending on your condition
- Attend all scheduled appointments with your diabetes care team. Discuss your symptoms with your care team if you feel you may be affected by neuropathy
Recommended foot care plan
- Keep your blood glucose within the healthy levels. Your diabetes care team can support you with this
- Check your feet for lesions every day. Do it at the same time every day to make it a habit
- Be physically active wearing the appropriate footwear (sports shoes that fit correctly - ensuring they are smooth on the inside)
- Wash and dry your feet carefully – daily. Always dry between the toes
- Moisturize your feet daily on the top and bottom but avoid in between the toes
- Keep toenails trimmed and neat
- Wear comfortable shoes and socks all the time and always check the insides before putting them on to ensure they are smooth
- Check the temperature of water/surfaces before exposing your feet to them
- Increase blood flow to your feet by performing simple exercises – wiggle your toes and rotate your ankles at regular intervals throughout the day. Keep your feet elevated when sitting. Avoid crossing your legs
- Don’t smoke
