I had two patients last week who described their symptoms to be that of the “slipping slipper sign”. This is where a person actually walks out of their slippers and is not aware. It is quite dangerous, since  persons with diabetes who do not have sensation in their feet, are at high risk for developing ulcers. In one instance, the patient was concerned about it, while the other one laughed, whilst articulating the experiences when such occurred.

Diabetic Neuropathy is defined by patients as having pain, burning, tingling, pins and needles, and/or numbness. If you have a type of nerve damage from diabetes called diabetic peripheral neuropathy, chances are you’ve experienced these symptoms, especially in your hands and feet. The discomfort can affect your mood, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Prescription medications can help. But research shows that they only ease the pain by about 30% to 50%. How can you bridge the gap? Learn how you can get relief now – and prevent the condition from getting worse down the road.

Apart from having  peripheral neuropathy from diabetes, there are other conditions that can cause it. However, diabetes is in the lead. If you’re so affected, ensure you know how to treat with it, since depending your issues, it can also be detrimental to your daily existence.

Get Your Blood Sugar Under Control

If you don’t manage your diabetes, your blood glucose levels get too high. Over time, excess blood sugar can damage your peripheral nerves. These connect your brain and spinal cord, to the rest of your body. That could set the stage for diabetic neuropathy.

If you bring your blood sugar into the healthy range (a hemoglobin A1C reading of 7% or lower), you’ll reduce your risk of nerve damage by 60%, according to research from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Healthy blood sugar levels can slow the process and ease the pain of diabetic neuropathy”.

How can you keep your blood sugar in check? First, talk to your doctor. “A rapid drop can actually make the pain worse”. Your doctor can suggest changes to gently bring your levels down into the healthy zone:

• Eat a diet that’s high in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and whole grains; contains a moderate amount of fish, poultry, nuts, and beans; and has a very low amount of red meat.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Manage your stress levels.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes, 3-4 days a week.
• Take any prescribed medication as recommended by your doctor, for your blood sugar.

Get Your Vitamin D

Your skin produces this nutrient in response to sunlight. It may protect against nerve pain. When researchers from Britain’s University of Sheffield studied people with diabetic neuropathy, they found that those who had lower levels of Vitamin D, had more pain too.

It’s hard to get the recommended 600 to 800 IU of vitamin D from food alone. You may need to take a supplement. In fact, one study found that people with diabetic neuropathy, who took a supplement once a week, had fewer symptoms after two months.

Try a Vitamin B Complex

These play an important role in your nerve health. Not getting enough vitamin B12 can lead to nerve damage. Most people get enough vitamins B through food. But ask your doctor if you should take a supplement. Some studies show supplements can help reduce pain and other symptoms.

Other Treatments

Electrical therapy, and massage therapy, are other options to explore.

Get Moving

Exercise combats pain in a few different ways. It helps keep blood sugar levels in check, which may slow nerve damage. “Exercise also increases blood flow to the arms and legs. Plus, it boosts your mood and provides stress relief, so you’re better able to deal with the discomfort”. One study from the University of Kansas Medical Centre, found that people with diabetic neuropathy who exercised regularly, found that their pain didn’t get in the way of daily activities such as work, sleep, and relationships.

So what are you waiting for? Lace up those sneakers! If it hurts to walk or jog, try swimming, or the stationary bike.

Give Your Feet Some TLC

Nerve damage in your feet can cause them to lose sensation. So you may not realise that you scratched, or cut your foot, until much later. As a result, you may develop a more serious problem, like an ulcer or infection. To avoid this, you should clean and examine your feet, at the end of each day. Also, make sure that you wear comfortable shoes. Pairs that are too tight can pinch your feet and lead to injury.

Learn Relaxation Techniques

Diabetic neuropathy is associated with anxiety and depression. Both of these conditions can make the pain worse. If you experience them, talk to your doctor. They may suggest medication as well as the following:

• Relaxation techniques – such as visualising, breathing exercise, meditation, massage, and yoga.

 Your feet mirror your general health . . . cherish them!