Not on its own. Most people experience diabetic neuropathy foot problems when they have sudden fluctuations in their blood glucose levels. This can happen during periods when patients are letting their sugar levels go unchecked, but also when they are attempting—and even succeeding—to get them under control.
It is important to remember that any diabetic foot pain is not necessarily neuropathy. If you are experiencing a tingling or burning in your feet, you may have an ulcer, infection, or circulation problems—all of which can increase the chances of foot amputation. A Media podiatrist can help you understand what is causing your distress in order to treat it effectively.
Common symptoms that occur with painful neuropathy include:
- Pain responses to non-painful activities, such as wearing shoes, walking, or having blankets touching the patient’s feet at night
- Increased pain responses to a stimulus that normally causes minor pain, such as heat, impact, or freezing
- Squeezing or tightening sensations that feel like the feet are continuously under pressure
- Vibrations or tingling under the skin of the feet and hands, as if something is crawling underneath the surface
The biggest factor in whether you will experience trouble with your feet in the future is whether you take proper care of your feet. If you have normal sensation and good circulation, painful neuropathy may pass without increasing your risk of foot injury or amputation.
To find out more about how diabetes affects your foot health, contact our experienced podiatrists at HealthMark Foot & Ankle Associates today at 610-565-3668 in Media or 610-933-8644 in Phoenixville.