Olav Jaren, MD, PhD

One of the symptoms people develop in the setting in of diabetes is numbness or pain in their feet, otherwise known as diabetic neuropathy.

Sensation and movement are functions that are carried by the nerves in our body. The nerves do not have a sophisticated method of handling glucose, and when your blood glucose level is high, this is harmful to them.

Blood glucose (or blood sugar) is the primary energy source for our bodies. It varies during the day from a range of about 60-110. At times, a meal with a lot of sugar will raise it higher.

When blood sugar is persistently elevated, or when the body cannot control elevated blood sugar by itself, we refer to this condition as diabetes mellitus. Some parts of the body are designed to help reduce blood sugar, such as the kidneys, liver, brain and our muscles. When blood sugar is very high, too high to be managed, it can injure these structures.

The nerves that are affected first by high levels of blood glucose are normally the longest ones in the body, such as those that supply the toes and feet. That is why symptoms of diabetic neuropathy seem to start there first.

Often, symptoms of numbness associated with a burning or tingling sensation are suggestive of nerve irritation. There are many reasons these symptoms could occur, but one of the most common reasons is impaired glucose metabolism — meaning our bodies are not processing/breaking down glucose properly.

Common problems associated with diabetic neuropathy include pain, infections, trouble with balance, weakness and trouble walking. Not everyone with diabetic neuropathy has the exact same set of symptoms, but often there is similarity from person to person.

Treatment typically includes dietary changes, counseling and sometimes specialized medication. Controlling blood glucose generally leads to significant improvement over time. Nerves are capable of healing if the glucose levels in the body return to normal.

If you have these symptoms or have questions about diabetic neuropathy, it is important to discuss your concerns with your health care provider.

Olav Jaren, MD, PhD, is a board-certified neurologist practicing at IHA Neurology Consultants. He also has a PhD in biochemistry. Dr. Jaren has clinical interest in inflammatory neuropathy and autoimmune disease. IHA Neurology Consultants is located at 24 Frank Lloyd Wright Drive, Lobby L Suite 2300, Ann Arbor. Dr. Jaren can be reached at 734-930=5300. For more information or to read more posts on the IHA blog please visit www.ihacares.com.