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Methods to Prevent Diabetic Neuropathy

Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju
Sandeep Dhanyamraju MD
Medically reviewed by Sandeep Dhanyamraju

Diabetic neuropathy is among the most prevalent consequences of diabetes. High blood sugar levels can damage the nerves over time. But how to prevent or stop diabetic neuropathy? You should control your blood sugar levels, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, exercise and see your doctor regularly to check for any early signs of neuropathy.

It typically affects the legs and feet but can also spread to the hands, arms, and other body parts. Diabetic neuropathy can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in your hands, feet, or legs. Diabetic neuropathy can also cause problems with the digestive system, heart, and blood vessels, if not prevented

There are several types of diabetic neuropathy. They include peripheral, autonomic, proximal, and focal. Diabetic neuropathy therapy may include pain relief medication, nerve-protecting supplements, and changes to your diabetes management plan. In this blog post, we’ll discuss six methods to prevent diabetic neuropathy. Keep reading to learn more!

 

What Helps with Diabetic Neuropathy?

Keeping blood sugar levels under control is the most important thing you can do. This can help prevent nerve damage primarily and improve nerve function if damage has already occurred. Lifestyle changes that can help treat diabetic neuropathy include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Early detection and treatment of diabetic neuropathy are essential to prevent or delay the condition’s progression. And how to treat and stop diabetic neuropathy

What helps with diabetic neuropathy

The treatment includes:

  •  physical therapy;
  •  electrical nerve stimulation;
  •  medications;
  •  surgery;
  •  and lifestyle changes.

 

Medications to treat diabetic neuropathy include pain relievers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and anti-nerve growth factor agents. Surgery is an option for treating diabetic neuropathy when other methods have failed or are unsuitable. 

It is known that a deficiency of many vitamins and microelements is observed in diabetes. However, eliminating vitamin B deficiency is the most important in treating diabetic neuropathy. Neurotropic vitamins (group B) are coenzymes involved in various biochemical processes. They improve nerve cell energy and prevent the end-product formation of protein glycation. 

 

How to Prevent Diabetic Neuropathy? 6 Effective Methods

The main goal of treating and preventing this disease is to optimize glycemic control. Numerous studies conducted in recent years have convincingly proven that achieving an optimal blood glucose level within one day prevents the development of diabetic neuropathy manifestations. And now, let’s consider the main steps to prevent diabetic neuropathy in more detail.

How to prevent diabetic neuropathy

1. Maintain Good Blood Sugar Control

There are many ways to maintain good blood sugar. And what can really help to maintain blood sugar control in diabetic neuropathy? It includes:

  • monitoring your blood sugar levels;
  • eating a healthy diet;
  • exercising regularly;
  • taking your medications as prescribed;
  • avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption;
  • managing stress;
  • getting regular checkups with your doctor.

 

2. Take Care of your Feet

Proper foot and leg care is an essential step on how to prevent diabetic neuropathy. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including amputation. You can do several things to take care of your feet and legs:

  • Check your feet daily for any cuts, bruises, blisters, or other wounds. If you find anything, seek medical attention immediately.
  • Wear shoes that fit properly and protect your feet from injury. Avoid walking barefoot.
  • Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
  • Trim your toenails regularly. Cut them straight and file down any sharp edges.
  • Exercise regularly. This helps improve blood circulation to your feet and legs.

 

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is vital for preventing diabetic neuropathy and providing your body with nutrients. It helps the body heal and repair itself. Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep blood sugar levels in check. Getting enough protein is also significant, as it helps repair damaged nerves. Good protein sources include lean meats, beans, nuts, and seeds. Limiting refined carbs such as white bread, pastries, and sugary drinks can also help keep blood sugar levels under control. A healthy diet also includes getting enough vitamins B1, B6, and B12, which are vital for nerve health.

If you have diabetes, working with a registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan that meets your individual needs. It is necessary to follow a healthy diet for managing diabetes and preventing neuropathy complications.

 

4. Exercise Regularly

It is advisable to exercise daily for 20 minutes or more. If your health indicates that you are unprepared for such activities, then brisk walking around the house will be a good start. You should do it 3 or 4 times a week. So, let’s see what exercises can help with diabetic neuropathy: 

 

  • Aerobic activity: This exercise helps improve blood sugar control and reduces nerve damage.
  • Strength training: Building muscle can help to reduce stress on the nerves and improve blood sugar control.
  • Flexibility exercises: Stretching and range-of-motion exercises can help to keep the muscles and joints healthy, which can, in turn, reduce stress on the nerves.

 

If you have diabetes, it is essential to work with your doctor to create an exercise plan that is right for you.

 

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for preventing diabetic neuropathy disease.

You need to ensure that you eat a healthy diet and get enough exercise. If you are overweight, you should try to lose weight gradually. You can do this by eating fewer calories and exercising more. If you are underweight, you should try to gain weight slowly. You can do this by eating more calories and exercising less.  

 

6. Reduce Stress 

Stress can trigger many health problems, including diabetic neuropathy. Managing stress is just what can help prevent neuropathy development or progression. You should try to relax, get enough sleep, and care for yourself mentally and physically. Identifying stressors and finding healthy coping mechanisms can significantly impact your overall health and well-being. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional if you struggle to manage your stress. They can help you develop a plan to reduce stress and improve your overall health.

 

Book an Appointment at Lone Star Neurology Doctors

While neuropathy cannot be cured, it can be managed and treated to prevent further damage. If you have diabetes, it is significant to protect your feet and nerve functions. Prevention is always the best action for health, so make sure you are doing everything possible to avoid diabetic neuropathy. If you are unsure how to start, our Lone Star Neurology specialists can help create a treatment plan that works for you.

 

FAQ

  • Can you stop diabetic neuropathy?

There is no cure for diabetic neuropathy, but there are treatments that can help relieve the symptoms and prevent further damage. Medications can be used to control pain, improve blood circulation, and protect nerve fibers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged nerves or relieve pressure on the nerves. Some lifestyle changes may help include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.

  • What triggers diabetic neuropathy?

Scientists believe it is likely caused by a combination of factors, including high blood sugar levels and nerve damage. Certain medications, infections, and illnesses can also contribute to the development of this condition.  

  • What foods should I avoid with diabetic neuropathy?

They include:

  • Sugary foods and drinks. Consuming too much sugar can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
  • Processed foods. These foods are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
  • Alcohol. It can cause dehydration.
  • Caffeine. It can also contribute to dehydration.

 

  • Where does diabetic neuropathy usually start?

Diabetic neuropathy most commonly starts in the feet and legs but can also affect the hands and arms. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, or pain in the affected area. In severe cases, diabetic neuropathy can lead to ulcers or gangrene (tissue death) of the foot or leg. 

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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