Why Does Diabetes Cause Leg Pain?
Diabetes develops when a person’s body does not make enough insulin to process sugars present in the blood. This can lead to many complications, including leg pain.
When people with diabetes experience leg pain, it may be the result of nerve damage. Nerve damage can occur if a person with diabetes does not receive treatment or is unable to manage their blood sugar levels.
According to the American Diabetes Association, more than 30 million people are living with diabetes in the United States.
So why does diabetes cause leg pain?
People living with diabetes may experience severe complications such as diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage. Diabetic neuropathy can occur in different parts of the body. However, it is most common in the legs and arms. When nerve damage occurs in these outer limbs, doctors call it diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
People who experience diabetic peripheral neuropathy have a higher risk of developing serious complications in their feet or legs, including injuries or amputation. Once diabetic neuropathy occurs, treatment tends to focus on reducing the pain and cramping symptoms. Treatments may also help slow the progression of the condition.
Complications from diabetic leg pain
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy can cause serious complications without treatment. In cases that impact the legs, this can include amputation of the limb, infection in the limb, falling due to loss of balance
Prevention of diabetic leg pain
It is not always possible to prevent diabetic peripheral neuropathy. However, people can greatly reduce their risk of developing it — or developing serious complications — by regulating their blood sugar levels.
For diabetic foot care, we highly recommend that you get checked at least 3-4 times every year to make sure your feet are in good condition. Having your feet checked this often enables us to really get to know you, your condition, and your feet, which allows us to be able to see any problems that may arise much faster.
For more information visit our website flagstafffootandankle.com or call us at 928-774-4825 and book your appointment today
As one of the premier podiatry practices in Flagstaff, AZ our podiatrist and team at Flagstaff Foot Doctors also provide 5-star podiatry care to patients from Williams, Winslow, Sedona, Tusayan (Grand Canyon) & Page, AZ & the surrounding areas.