Diabetic Neuropathy FAQs and Info

Diabetic Neuropathy FAQs

Diabetes impacts multiple organs and their functions. Poorly controlled diabetes can cause cardiovascular issues, kidney problems, vision problems and nerve problems. 


One of the most common side effects of diabetes is damage to the nerves. This condition is known as diabetic neuropathy. DN causes a number of painful symptoms, including shooting pains, numbness, tingling and muscle pain.


It is extremely important for people with diabetes to be regularly screened for diabetic neuropathy. It is also important for diabetics to understand the signs and symptoms of this condition.


Here are some important FAQs and information. 

What is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage that occurs in up to 50% of people with diabetes1. 


Individuals with Type 2 diabetes are recommended to begin screening for diabetic neuropathy immediately following diagnosis. For individuals with Type 1 diabetes, screening is recommended to begin five years after diagnosis2. 

 

Some patients experience few or no symptoms from this condition, while others may experience pain, tingling and other symptoms. 

Why Does Diabetes Cause Neuropathy?

Diabetes that isn’t carefully managed causes ongoing high blood glucose levels. Over time, high blood glucose causes damage and malfunction in nerve cells, most commonly in the peripheral nerves.


Diabetic peripheral neuropathy occurs when the peripheral nerves are damaged by sustained high blood sugar3.

Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

Of the four major types of neuropathy that affects people with diabetes, three are considered polyneuropathy. Polyneuropathy is nerve damage that affects multiple nerves. 


There are four main types of neuropathy common in people with diabetes:


Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy damages the peripheral nerves. This conditions most commonly affects the feet and legs. 


Proximal Neuropathy: This form of neuropathy is often called diabetic amyotrophy. Proximal neuropathy mainly affects the muscles, causing muscle weakness and sciatica. This condition is the second-most common form of neuropathy in diabetics.


Autonomic Neuropathy: This form of neuropathy affects the autonomic nerves (those that control involuntary bodily functions). The urinary tract, cardiovascular system, genital organs and digestive system are commonly impacted by autonomic neuropathy. 


Focal Neuropathy: Focal neuropathy is the only form of diabetic neuropathy that is categorized as mononeuropathy. Focal neuropathy affects one specific nerve, most commonly those in the head and eyes. Because it affects only single nerves, focal neuropathy has different symptoms and complications than other types of neuropathy.

What Are the Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy?

The most common symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy include:


- Numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet and legs

- Sharp or cramping pain in the feet and legs

- Hypersensitivity to temperature and touch

- Slow healing or non-healing wounds on the legs and feet


Common symptoms of autonomic neuropathy include:


- Reduced awareness of low blood sugar

- Bladder problems 

- Bowel problems

- Gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying)

- Issues with sexual response


Common symptoms of proximal neuropathy include severe pain in the stomach, hips and thighs. Other symptoms include shrinking or weakened muscles in the thighs. 


The most common symptoms of focal neuropathy are vision issues, including double vision and aching behind one of the eyes. Other symptoms include Bell’s palsy, weakness in the hands and tingling in the hands. 

Treatment for Diabetic Neuropathy Pain

If you are a diabetic and are concerned about neuropathy, it’s important to visit your doctor as soon as possible. A diagnosis can help you determine which lifestyle changes and treatments may help you. 



If you’re suffering from debilitating neuropathy pain due to diabetes, a pain specialist may be able to help you. 


Treatment options for diabetic neuropathy include medical management, certain medications, nerve blocks and spinal cord stimulation therapy. 


Pain Treatment Centers of America specializes in treating painful diabetic neuropathy at each of our ten clinics across Arkansas. Contact us today to learn more about our treatments or to schedule your appointment. 

Sources:


  1. "Epidemiology of Peripheral Neuropathy and ... - NCBI - NIH." 27 Aug. 2019, .https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6755905/.
  2. "Simple tests to screen for diabetic peripheral ... - NCBI - NIH." 30 Jul. 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6513498/.
  3. "Why You Need to Control Your Blood Sugar to Avoid Diabetic ...." 20 Feb. 2020, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/high-blood-sugar-toxic-nerves-heres-avoid/.

When Pain Isn’t Structural: Understanding Neuropathic Pain

June 26, 2026
Pain is often associated with injury, arthritis, or another structural problem in the body. However, not all pain comes from damaged bones, joints, muscles, or tissues. Sometimes, the nervous system itself causes discomfort. This pain is called neuropathic pain and can greatly affect quality of life. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we help patients determine the source of their symptoms and develop personalized plans to manage chronic nerve pain effectively. What Is Neuropathic Pain? Neuropathic pain happens when nerves are damaged, irritated, or dysfunctional. Unlike pain from injury or inflammation, it results from abnormal signaling within the nervous system. These disrupted signals cause the brain to sense pain even without ongoing tissue damage. Patients commonly describe neuropathic pain as burning, tingling, shooting, electric-like, or stabbing. Some may experience numbness, elevated sensitivity to touch, or pain that seems disproportionate to any physical findings. Common Causes of Neuropathic Pain Neuropathic pain can develop from a variety of conditions that affect the nerves or nervous system. Some common causes include: Diabetes-related nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) Herniated discs are causing nerve compression Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord injuries Stroke-related nerve damage Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy Symptoms can vary widely, so proper evaluation is key for accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment. Neuropathic pain is often challenging to identify because imaging exams like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may not always reveal the source of the problem. Patients may experience significant pain despite having slight structural abnormalities. A complete evaluation includes medical history, physical exam, neurological assessment, and diagnostic tests when needed. Identifying nerve involvement is critical because neuropathic pain often responds differently to treatment than musculoskeletal pain. Treatment Options for Neuropathic Pain Successful treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause when possible while reducing symptoms and improving function. Depending on the patient’s condition, treatment options may include: Medication management designed specifically for nerve pain Nerve block injections Physical therapy and rehabilitation Spinal cord stimulation Lifestyle alterations Interventional pain management procedures Many benefit from an approach that combines several therapies for the best outcomes. When to Seek Professional Care Persistent burning, tingling, numbness, or shooting pain should not be ignored. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent worsening symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. If you have ongoing pain not connected to a structural injury, it may be time to explore if neuropathic pain is the cause. An extensive evaluation can determine the source of your symptoms and identify the most effective treatments. Personalized Neuropathic Pain Treatment at Pain Treatment Centers of America At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we understand that chronic pain is complex and every patient’s experience is unique. Our team uses sophisticated diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments to identify nerve-related pain and create individualized care plans to improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent nerve pain symptoms, schedule a consultation with Pain Treatment Centers of America today. Together, we can develop a treatment plan designed to help you regain control of your daily activities and move toward lasting relief.
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Chronic or acute pain has the potential to significantly impact your daily life, making even everyday tasks a hassle. Pain Treatment Centers of America believes that knowing your medication options is a crucial step in building an appropriate, personal pain management strategy. While many treatment options are available, pharmacologic therapy has been the peak of comprehensive care. Types of Medications Used in Pain Management Pain medications are not universalized. The selection of the right prescription depends on the pain type, severity, and medical history. Common categories include: 1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, tend to be the first line of defense for low levels of pain. They reduce swelling and provide comfort associated with conditions like arthritis, back pain, or joint injuries. In some patients, however, they can affect the stomach or kidneys. Therefore, careful studying and dosing guidance from a professional is key. 2. Acetaminophen Acetaminophen is mostly for general pain reduction and is sometimes combined with other treatments. Unlike NSAIDs, it doesn’t target swelling. Nonetheless, it can be effective for pain relief and daily improvement. 3. Muscle Relaxants For pain caused by muscle spasms or tension, muscle relaxants can provide relief. These medications work by calming overactive muscles and are usually prescribed for short-term use to prevent dependency or side effects. 4. Antidepressants and Anti-Seizure Medications Certain antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs can treat neuropathic (nerve) pain. They work by altering how the nervous system processes signals of pain throughout your body. Even if you do not experience depression or seizures, these medications assist with pain control. 5. Opioids Opioids are strong pain-relieving medications chosen for more potent pain when other options aren’t doing the trick. At Pain Treatment Centers of America, we practice strict guidelines to minimize risks, evaluate patient progress, and ensure healthy, responsible use. A combination of Opioids can be introduced to other treatments as part of a multimodal pain management plan. Personalized Pain Management The effectiveness of medications is best when combined with other therapies; physical therapy, interventional procedures, and lifestyle changes. We work closely with each patient to structure a plan that focuses on the root cause of pain, not just the signs. Every treatment plan is carefully engineered, giving thought to variables like medical history, existing conditions, and possible side effects. Patients are taught how to use the medication safely, dosing schedules, and expectations of each prescription. Take the Next Step Understanding your medication options enables you to take charge of your pain and improve your life overall. If you’re having issues with chronic or acute pain, our professionals at Pain Treatment Centers of America will gladly help. We mix the most up-to-date pharmacologic therapies with personalized care to provide comfort, improve function, and enhance your total well-being. Schedule a consultation today to learn which pain management medications are a good fit.
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