fbpx
Your Guide To Doctors, Health Information, and Better Health!
Your Health Magazine Logo
The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
La Plata Physical Therapy, Inc.
PT and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
La Plata Physical Therapy, Inc.
. http://www.laplatapt.com/

PT and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a painful condition affecting the peripheral nerves in advanced or poorly controlled diabetes. Damage to the nerves occurs due to impaired blood flow that is the result of damage to the blood vessels that supply those nerves.

Most commonly the condition will affect both limbs symmetrically, either the arms or legs, and will affect the area furthest from the body (the hands or feet) first.

The main cause of the condition as the name suggests is diabetes mellitus.

Most typically symptoms include

Pain in the feet and legs or hands and arms.

Weakness or loss of function at the periphery of the limb.

Sensory disturbance (loss of sensation or hypersensitivity), which usually occurs in a symmetrical pattern in both limbs.

In severe cases, wasting of the muscles in the feet or hands may occur.

Patients may also experience “stocking glove” sensory distribution impairments, which means the entire lower leg and foot or forearm and hand are affected uniformly with no area spared of the impaired sensation.

In some cases orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure with change in position, may occur.

Functionally there can be a decrease in coordination and feeling of clumsiness.

Strict monitoring of glucose levels and pharmacological management are both important interventions in preventing worsening of the nerve pathology. For physical symptoms and impairments, physical therapy (PT) can be helpful in helping manage pain and maintain function.

How Can Physical Therapy Help?

First a physical therapist will help to establish a plan of care that is appropriate to the nature and severity of the condition. Plans will also vary according to the goals of the patient. Some of the following treatments are often utilized

Nerve Gliding Activities A physical therapist can demonstrate and instruct in nerve gliding which are exercises that move and “glide” your nerves. Nerve gliding focuses on allowing the nerves to move more easily as you bend and straighten your joints.

Moderate-Intensity Exercise A physical therapist will also provide instructions on the performance of moderate-intensity exercises to help improve your strength and physical function.

Balance and Coordination Activities A physical therapist may work on strategies to improve balance and coordination, both of which may be altered by peripheral neuropathy. Improving balance and coordination can help decrease risk of falling.

Education A physical therapist will provide education on how to safely manage peripheral neuropathy. Education will vary based on individual needs, and may focus on improving safety, preventing further complications, and finding alternative ways to perform certain tasks.

Maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle, including routine follow-ups by a physical therapist, may help reduce risk of developing certain types of peripheral neuropathy and the complications associated with it. A physical therapist is trained to monitor any changes, such as strength, sensation, and functional ability that could suggest development or worsening of peripheral neuropathy.

www.yourhealthmagazine.net
MD (301) 805-6805 | VA (703) 288-3130