Diabetic neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves and often arises from high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia. The damaged nerves usually occur in the legs or feet, but can also occur anywhere in the body. Depending on which nerves are affected, symptoms can range from pain and numbness in the extremities, to problems with your digestive system, urinary tract, blood vessels and heart.
As of 2010, neuropathy affected 131 million people around the world, and diabetes was the leading known cause. Among those with diabetes, neuropathy was also the most common complication, affecting roughly 20%. Despite its prevalence, diabetic neuropathy is a serious complication but can often be prevented or slowed with tight blood sugar control.
Though there are four different types of neuropathy, but the most common form is peripheral neuropathy, which affects the feet and legs first and may also affect the hands and arms. For diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, symptoms may include:
- Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or changes in temperature, especially in your feet or toes.
- A tingling or burning feeling
- Sharp, jabbing pain that may be worse at night
- Pain when walking
- Extreme sensitivity to the lightest touch – for some people, even the weight of a sheet can be agonizing Muscle weakness and difficulty walking
- Serious foot problems, such as ulcers, infections, deformations, and bone and joint pain.
For most, the painful tingling sensation around the feet is most difficult symptom to cope with. As is most likely the case with situations like these, a well rounded change of lifestyle is the greatest tool against advanced stages. While changing one's diet, maintaining blood pressure and quitting smoking can all help to stave off neuropathy's progression, the increased blood circulation that accompanies daily exercise is necessary. The American Diabetes Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. This may be the most difficult aspect of lifestyle change, considering the sensitivity of the feet, so activities such as swimming or bicycling may be recommended.
To help combat the sensitivity, Juzo produces a crew sock especially for sensitive feet called the Silver Sole. The sock features a very pillowed sole to reduce blistering and callous buildup while increasing shock absorption, and a channeled toe seam to minimize the potential for irritation. In addition, the Silver Sole derives its name from the X-static silver filaments woven through the foot portion for odor reduction and antibacterial protection. Paired with a change of diet, the Juzo Silver Sole crew socks can help you be successful in your fight against diabetic neuropathy!