Diabetic Neuropathy: Causes and Symptoms
Diabetic neuropathy is a nerve disorder caused by diabetes. Over time, those with diabetes can develop nerve damage throughout the body. Some people do not have symptoms, while others may experience pain, nausea, dizziness or loss of feeling in the hands, arms, legs and feet. Up to 70% of diabetics have some form of neuropathy. The causes vary for diabetic neuropathy. Nerve damage may be due to autoimmune factors, damage to the blood vessels, high blood glucose, low levels of insulin and alcohol abuse. Diabetic neuropathy is often classified as peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy, proximal neuropathy and focal neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type and causes pain in the feet, legs, hands and arms and may even cause hammertoes. Autonomic neuropathy can cause changes in perspiration, bladder function, respiratory function and digestion. It can also affect the nerves in the lungs, heart and eyes. Proximal neuropathy is more likely with people who have with type 2 diabetes and in older diabetics. It causes pain in the buttocks, hips and thighs. Focal neuropathy results in the weakness of one nerve or nerve groups, which results in pain or muscle weakness. Symptoms include Bell’s palsy, double vision, chest pain, lower back pain and pain on the inside of the foot. The most effective way to prevent diabetic neuropathy is to maintain blood glucose levels as best possible; this protects the body’s nerves.
Chiropractic Care for Diabetic Neuropathy for Harrisburg, Hershey, Progress, Colonial Park, and Lower Paxton, PA
Chirorpactor Dr. Skocik of Skocik Chiropractic treats neuropathy directly and not just its symptoms. It is a good alternative for those who suffer from neuropathy, as it fills the existing gap in the medical world. Family physicians often just treat the symptoms with medication. He implements an innovative treatment plan that includes spinal adjustments, massage therapy, nutritional counseling and Thor laser therapy. It’s a multi-faceted approach that treats the root cause of diabetic neuropathy. Through spinal adjustments, Dr. Skocik brings the vertebrae back into proper alignment to relieve pain caused by compressed nerves. If inflamed blood vessels are pressing on nerves and causing pain, massage therapy can reduce pain, increase blood flow and boost the immune system. Dr. Skocik also offers the revolutionary Thor laser therapy for those suffering from neuropathy. This therapy uses a low level laser light to enhance healing from the inside out. It’s a focused light that ramps up cellular oxygenation and circulation. It is highly effective for neuropathy, and many patients experience less pain after just several treatments. Often, the Thor laser therapy reduces the need for pain meds for neuropathy symptoms.
Contact Our Harrisburg Chiropractor Today!
Living with diabetes is tough enough. Having diabetic neuropathy presents you with a whole new of problems that you have deal with. If you are suffering from neuropathy, turn to Skocik Chiropractic for help. Dr. Skocik will customize a diabetic nespecialized treatment plan to meet your unique needs, depending on what type of diabetic neuropathy you have. Give us a call today (717) 540-8448.