Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

Diabetic neuropathy is a common but often preventable complication of diabetes. This nerve condition results from prolonged high blood sugar levels and can cause pain, numbness, and other debilitating symptoms—especially in the legs and feet. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our experienced pain doctors provide effective, personalized care for patients suffering from diabetic neuropathy in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa.

What Is Diabetic Neuropathy?

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by chronic high blood sugar, primarily affecting individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It typically develops slowly and may go unnoticed until symptoms become more intense. While the condition can impact any part of the nervous system, it most often affects the lower extremities, particularly the legs and feet.

If left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can lead to serious complications, including ulcers, infections, and even limb amputation. That’s why early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan from a qualified pain clinic is essential.

Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy

The symptoms vary depending on the type of neuropathy and the nerves involved. Some patients experience a gradual onset of discomfort, while others may notice symptoms suddenly.

Common signs include:

• Peripheral Neuropathy (most common type):
  Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, muscle weakness, and foot pain—especially at night.

• Autonomic Neuropathy:
  Digestive issues, bladder or bowel dysfunction, difficulty detecting low blood sugar, sexual dysfunction, and resting tachycardia.

• Radiculoplexus Neuropathy (Diabetic Amyotrophy):
  Sudden pain in the hip, thigh, or buttock—usually one-sided—accompanied by muscle weakness or weight loss.

• Mononeuropathy (Focal Neuropathy):
  Sudden nerve damage causing issues like double vision, facial pain, or pain in isolated areas like the thigh, back, or chest.

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a pain specialist at The Pain Experts of Arizona to receive a comprehensive evaluation.

Diagnosing Diabetic Neuropathy

A thorough physical exam is often the first step in diagnosing diabetic neuropathy. Your pain doctor will assess your muscle strength, reflexes, and sensitivity to touch and temperature. Additional tests may include:

• Filament testing

• Nerve conduction studies

• Electromyography (EMG)

• Quantitative sensory testing

• Autonomic testing

Early detection is key, especially for patients in Gilbert and the surrounding areas, where lifestyle-related risk factors are common.

Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

There are four primary forms of diabetic neuropathy:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Affects feet, legs, hands, and arms. Most common form.

• Autonomic Neuropathy: Affects systems like digestion, heart rate, and urinary function.

• Radiculoplexus Neuropathy: Impacts thighs and hips, often one-sided, and more prevalent in older adults.

• Mononeuropathy: Sudden nerve damage in a single nerve, often in the face or torso.

Understanding the type of neuropathy you have helps guide the treatment plan developed at our pain clinic in Scottsdale.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the primary cause is prolonged high blood sugar levels, other contributing factors include:

• High cholesterol and triglycerides

• Smoking or other tobacco use

• Excess alcohol consumption

• Obesity or sedentary lifestyle

• Poor blood sugar management

Our pain clinic in Mesa offers integrated programs focused on reducing these risk factors to manage and prevent further nerve damage.

Treatment Options for Diabetic Neuropathy

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we offer a variety of evidence-based treatments tailored to your specific type of neuropathy. These include:

• Blood Sugar Control:
  Keeping glucose levels within your target range (typically an A1C below 7%) can slow or even reverse nerve damage.

• Medications:
  Pain relief through over-the-counter options or prescription medications such as anti-seizure drugs, antidepressants, and topical creams containing lidocaine.

• Acupuncture:
  Helps reduce pain and improve nerve function with minimal side effects.

• Lifestyle Modifications:
  Adopting a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and getting at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, as recommended by the ADA.

• Massage Therapy:
  Regular foot massages can enhance circulation and reduce discomfort.

• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):
  Uses low-voltage electrical impulses to block pain signals. Devices are available both in-clinic and for home use.

Our Phoenix pain specialists may also collaborate with endocrinologists, podiatrists, and physical therapists to provide holistic, long-term relief.

Facts About Diabetic Neuropathy

• Nearly 50% of people with diabetes will experience some form of neuropathy.

• Symptoms often develop gradually and may go unnoticed in early stages.

• Multiple forms of neuropathy can occur simultaneously.

• Early intervention and consistent care from a pain doctor are critical to avoid complications.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Whether you’re managing new symptoms or looking for better control of your existing condition, The Pain Experts of Arizona is here to help. Our pain clinic offers personalized care for diabetic neuropathy in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa. Book an appointment today to meet with a top-rated pain doctor and start your path to relief.

Contact

Diabetic neuropathy can cause burning pain, numbness, or weakness—especially in the feet and legs—but with expert care, these symptoms can be managed effectively. Whether you’re experiencing early signs or advanced nerve damage, a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona can help you find lasting relief. Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, our experienced team offers personalized treatment plans to reduce discomfort, improve function, and prevent further complications from diabetic neuropathy.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

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