What is Diabetic Leg Pain

Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disorder that originates as a comorbid condition of diabetes and the word “neuropathy,” which indicates a condition of the nerves.
There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes is a congenital condition (present at birth). Type 2 can develop over time in susceptible people. For both, blood sugar must be controlled either through medication or diet (or a combination of the two).

The condition can affect several nerves in the limbs including sensory nerves, motor nerves, and autonomic nerves. Sensory nerves are those that receive sensations like pain or touch. Motor nerves control movement. And autonomic nerves control functions like blood pressure.

What Does Diabetic Leg Pain Feel Like?

We explore more of the symptoms but in general, symptoms can impact not only feeling but also movement. Diabetic neuropathy typically begins gradually with numbness or tingling in feet or hands, which then spreads throughout the limbs. Burning and sharp pains are also common.

Additional Symptoms

• tingling in the feet or lower legs
• a burning sensation
• feet that get very cold or very hot
• overly sensitive feet
• loss of sensation in the lower legs and feet
• weakened muscle tone in the legs and feet
• no pain, even when blisters or sores are present
• open sores or ulcers on the feet
• altered bone structure in the feet

Treatment For Diabetic Leg Pain

The best treatment for diabetic neuropathy is prevention. People with diabetes can reduce their risk of developing diabetic peripheral neuropathy through effective management of their blood sugar levels.
Even if they develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a person should aim to control their blood sugar levels as best they can.

The primary focus of treating diabetic peripheral neuropathy is pain management. In mild cases, a person may be able to take over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.