Patients who suffer from Diabetes are also likely to have Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP), sometimes better known as Diabetic Nerve Pain. 

Often described by patients as being a shooting or stabbing pain in any one of their extremities, DPNP is a real disorder that is only now getting the attention it deserves.  Doctors and patients alike are realizing that these pains are not a sign of weakness but are instead real symptoms of real nerve damage.  While the condition can develop in either Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes, studies show that the longer you have either type of the disease the more likely you are to develop DPNP.

No one is really sure what causes DPNP, but several risk factors are starting to emerge.  First off you need to really concentrate on controlling your sugar levels.  The data suggests that patients with poorly controlled sugar levels over time are at a higher risk of developing DPNP.  Other risk factors include having high blood pressure, being overweight, and being over the age of 40.  

It is always important to take care of yourself, but if you are at risk for DPNP the need is even more urgent.  We don’t know what causes the disease, but knowing the risk factors does give us a way to combat it.  First off, get control of your sugar.  Work with your doctor to find the plan that is right for you, and then be compliant.  You doctor can prescribe all the treatment in the world, but it is all worthless if you do not see it through.   Now get up and move.  High blood pressure and obesity are both counteracted by exercise.  Start small but set yourself a goal, like walking for 10 or 20 minutes, and work each day to achieve it.

DPNP is a terrible disorder that can make living with diabetes that much harder.  While there is nothing we can do to completely prevent the disease, you can take steps against it.  In the end it is up to you as the patient to take a stand and follow through.  Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you and then get up and get moving.