Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy. It can affect nerves in the feet, legs, hands and arms. It often starts in the feet, usually affecting both feet at the same time. Most often, peripheral neuropathy symptoms affect both sides of the body.

The symptoms can include:

• Numbness or less ability to feel pain or temperature changes, especially in the feet and toes.
• A tingling or burning feeling.
• Sharp, jabbing pain that may be worse at night.
• Serious discomfort from touch. For some people, even the weight of a bedsheet can be painful.
• Muscle weakness.
• Loss of reflex response.
• Serious foot issues such as ulcers, infections, changes in foot shape, and bone and joint damage.