Comparing and Contrasting Non-Diabetic and Diabetic Neuropathy
You might be surprised to learn that diabetes isn’t the only culprit behind nerve problems in the extremities. Peripheral neuropathy, a general term for nerve damage outside the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by a variety of conditions and factors.
In this article, we at Edmond Norman Foot and Anklewill explore the difference between diabetic and non-diabetic neuropathy, including possible treatments.
Causes
Vitamin deficiencies (B12, folate), autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis), infections (shingles, Lyme disease), injuries, toxin exposure (heavy metals), alcohol abuse, and rare genetic disorders can all damage nerves leading to neuropathy.
Symptoms
The symptoms of diabetic and non-diabetic neuropathy can be similar, which makes it difficult to distinguish between the two solely based on what you are feeling. Here’s the breakdown:
Similarities
- Both affect the feet and legs most commonly: Numbness, tingling, and burning pain are commonly experienced in the extremities with both types.
- Muscle weakness and loss of balance: Nerve damage can affect muscle function and coordination, leading to these issues in both diabetic and non-diabetic neuropathy.
Subtle Differences
- Distribution of pain: Diabetic neuropathy often follows a symmetrical pattern and affects both feet similarly. However, non-diabetic neuropathy might present with pain in only one foot or a more sporadic distribution.
- Severity of pain: Diabetic neuropathy can cause a more gradual loss of sensation, with a burning quality to the pain. Non-diabetic neuropathy might present with sharper, stabbing sensations or extreme sensitivity.
- Onset and progression: Diabetic neuropathy often develops slowly over time, while non-diabetic neuropathy might have a more rapid onset depending on the cause (e.g., sports injury).
Treatment
There’s no cure, but treatment can manage symptoms and improve quality of life. This may involve addressing the underlying cause, medication for pain, physical therapy, minimizing toxin exposure, and lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and exercise.
Consult with your podiatrist to determine which treatment is right for you.
Bill Buksh, DPM, and his expert medical staff at Edmond Norman Foot and Ankle offer leading podiatric care to anyone in need throughout Edmond and Norman, Oklahoma. Between thorough, comprehensive remedies for common podiatric conditions and our unique specialty treatments for nerve pain, we are eager and ready to treat your feet. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!
