Prevalence of Neuropathy
The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy is estimated to be between 6% and 51% among adults with diabetes depending on age, duration of diabetes, glucose control, and type 1 versus type 2 diabetes. The clinical manifestations are variable, ranging from asymptomatic to painful neuropathic symptoms Neuropathy is one of the most commonly occurring disorders due to either idiopathic causes or due to:•Genetic Disorders•Metabolic or Endocrine Disorders like Diabetes Mellitus, Chronic Renal•Failure, Liver Failure, Hypothyroidism•Toxic causes of Drugs •Inflammatory Diseases•Vitamin Deficiency and•Physical Trauma
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common type of PN. Today, it is estimated that 60-70% of diabetics have DPN Under managed DPN is the number one cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in the United States.
•Nearly 54,000 diabetics have amputations each year
•More shocking is the fact that 75% of amputations are preventable
•The estimated annual cost to treat diabetes related chronic complications such as DPN is $58 Billion
1/3rd of patients with diabetes have diabetic neuropathy 1
50% patients with diabetes have Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy2
30-60% patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy have painful Neuropathy2
Consequence of Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, a result of damage to the nerves located outside of the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves), often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in the hands and feet. It can also affect other areas and body functions including digestion, urination and circulation.
Some people may experience:
•Temporary numbness
•Tingling
•Pricking sensations (paresthesia)
•Sensitivity to touch, or muscle weakness
Others may suffer more extreme symptoms, including:
•Burning pain (especially at night)
•Muscle wasting
•Paralysis3
•Organ or gland dysfunction
