Diabetic neuropathy is the most common diabetes-related co-morbidity. Diabetic neuropathy impacts a large percentage of patients with diabetes, ranging between 60-70%. Neuropathy means that there has been damage made to the nerves of the peripheral nervous system and diabetes is the most common cause of neuropathy. Within the nerve damaged areas, the most common areas of the body affected are the hands and feet, which is usually referred to as a “glove and stocking” distribution. However, any nerves within the body may be involved, including those that control internal organs.
Diabetic neuropathy can have serious detrimental effects on a patient’s quality of life. Patients with diabetic neuropathy have a much higher risk of amputation and a 25-50% higher mortality rate in comparison to diabetic patients without neuropathy.
Unfortunately, once nerve damage or neuropathy has occurred there is no cure, however, management through different treatment modalities aims to ease symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications.
Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy:
The clinical manifestation of neuropathic pain is resulting from the degeneration of large or small sensory nerves. High glucose and lipids (fat) in the blood may create toxic by-products through their metabolism which are thought to be the major cause of neuropathy associated with diabetes.
Symptoms of diabetic Neuropathy:
Most people with diabetic neuropathy are unaware that they have nerve damage unless it is picked up on routine check-ups by their regular GP or clinician.
Typical symptoms vary from person to person however, will involve one or more of the following:
- Numbness
- Pins and needles
- Tingling
- Weakness
- Discomfort
Symptoms will usually begin in both feet and spread symmetrically up into the legs, like stockings.
Lower Level Laser Therapy:
There are a number of different studies conducted to determine the effect of low level laser therapy on reduction of pain and other factors in patients with diabetic neuropathy. Results have shown a significant decrease in pain and increase microcirculation.
Lakeside Laser can help reduce the effects of diabetic neuropathy through low level laser treatment; we also have low level lasers available for hire on a Daily, weekly and monthly options so you can do the low level laser treatment in the comfort of your own home. Lakeside laser is centrally located in Perth’s Northern suburb of Joondalup 6027. We have visitors from many surrounding areas such as: 6028- Currambine, Burns Beach, Iluka; 6025- Craigie, Kallaroo, Hillarys; 6031- Banksia Grove, Neerabup, Carramar and 6033- Mindarie, Tamarla Park and Quinns Rocks. We also have HICAPS Facilities available onsite for all major Health Providers. If you could like any further information regarding Low Level Laser Treatment please give us a call on 08 9300 0095 or check out the website:
www.lakesidelaser.com.au.