Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain symptoms are among the most common types of neuropathies. The Neuropathy Association states that neuropathy can be divided into three main sections: motor, sensory and autonomic. Each section carries with it its own importance and influence in daily functioning; this consequentially complicates the functionality of the individual with diabetes. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can debilitate an individual both physically and psychologically and result in many related symptoms.
Muscle Cramping
Motor peripheral neuropathies affect the muscles. The Neuropathy Association suggests that this can begin with difficulty walking or heaviness in the legs, and progress to difficulty walking and navigating stairs with the addition of muscle cramping. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse adds that the proximal influence of conditions related to neuropathy extend from the thighs to the hips, buttocks and the legs. Similarly, there are additional focal deficits which can occur that influence the eyes, facial muscles, ears, pelvis and lower back, abdomen, thighs, legs and feet.
Pinching and Electrical Impulses
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse suggests that sensory peripheral neuropathies can create spontaneous numbness, tingling sensations, pinching and electrical pulses and shock. Numbness may additionally lead to a lack of feelings in limbs or digits resulting in accidents and falls. Many diabetics complain that their hands and feet feel enclosed in gloves or stockings which is another source of discomfort. Nerve endings in the toes, feet, legs, hands and arms are affected.
Bruising and Tearing Pain
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke note that the autonomic system can influence the heart and blood vessels, the digestive system from top to bottom, the urinary tract, sexual organs, sweat glands, eyes and lungs. Autonomic peripheral neuropathies create dramatic drops in blood pressure, lead to dizziness, vertigo, constipation and diarrhea, sexual dysfunction, and the thinning of the skin. This increases the likelihood of bruising, tearing and poor wound healing compounded by additional pain and possible infection at the site.
References
- The Neuropathy Association; "The Spectrum of Diabetic Neuropathy"; Thomas MD PhD, F; 2010
- The Neuropathy Association; "Peripheral Neuropathy: Symptoms and Signs"; 2010
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse; "Diabetic Neuropathies"; Feb 2009
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; "What is Diabetic Neuropathy?"; Sep 2008
