How to Prevent Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is the peripheral nerve dysfunction seen in people with diabetes. Anyone who has had Type II diabetes for an extended period of time should be monitored for diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy can affect the feet, hands, toes, fingers or even skin on various parts of the body.

• Control your blood sugar levels. People with controlled blood sugar levels are sixty percent less likely to develop diabetic neuropathy.


• Detect diabetes early. The earlier you detect and diagnose diabetes, the easier it is to treat. Since diabetic neuropathy can be prevented with proper care, it is important to start prevention as soon as possible.


• Visit your doctor. If you have Type II diabetes, you should be under the care of a physician. Have the physician inspect your feet and hands regularly for any signs of diabetic neuropathy.


• Wear comfortable shoes. Comfortable shoes can help lessen the symptoms an onset of diabetic neuropathy.


• Avoid doing things that may cause lesions to the feet. Try to avoid walking on the cold ground or stepping into a scalding shower. Anything that can cause pain to the feet can be hard to heal if you have the onset of diabetic neuropathy.


• Do daily inspections of your body. Check your body for any sores that are not healing. Pay particular attention to your feet. Note any cracking or sores that do not appear to be getting better. Notify your doctor as soon as possible if you find something that may turn into diabetic neuropathy.