Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage caused by diabetes, resulting from chronically elevated blood sugar and associated metabolic disturbances. This means the nerves that normally carry signals for sensation, movement, and regulation of organ systems, become impaired.
Since nerves control sensation, muscle function, and organ regulation, diabetic neuropathy can lead to a variety of serious complications:
– Loss of protective sensation can lead to unnoticed injuries, infections, and even amputations.
– Nerve damage in legs or feet can lead to motor or balance impairment, and may increase risk of falls, gait problems, reduced mobility.- Many people experience burning, tingling, stabbing pain, or other sensory disturbances, which is a sign of chronic neuropathic pain.