Get Answers to Your Questions in Our Nerve Damage and Surgery FAQ

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a type of nerve damage that affects the extremities in people with diabetes. It is caused by high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves over time. The condition can affect people in different ways but is often described as: 

• Tingling in the feet and hands
• Intense burning
• Severe pins and needles
• Feeling like your feet are covered in ants
• Feeling like you’re walking on barbed wire
• An overall feeling of numbness that makes it hard to keep your balance

Until recently, it was felt that DPN was an incurable disease that was irreversible and would progressively worsen over time. Treatments typically focus on managing symptoms and preventing further damage. This often includes diet, exercise, and medication. We agree with aggressive control of blood sugar levels as the mainstay of trying to slow or halt the progression of symptoms. We are also thankful that there are some medications that can improve painful symptoms of neuropathy symptoms, but treatment doesn’t need to stop here. 

Over the past 15 years, there has been a growing level of evidence from different physicians and countries that surgical decompression of the affected nerves can have a profound effect on the health of the nerves badly affected by changes associated with DPN. It has been shown that diabetes causes sugar to move into the nerves itself. This sugar then can not get out and it brings water with it. Imagine how your fingers swell after eating a bunch of salty food.  How hard is it to get a ring off the finger? Why is that? Well, the finger swells but the ring around it does not change size. This is exactly what happens when the nerve swells, but the tunnel that the nerve travels through does not get bigger. The blood supply to the nerve gets cut off.  

It is not rocket science to determine what can happen next. Less blood flow equals less function.   Nerves start dying. When nerves start dying, they start talking to you to let you know it—they burn, they tingle, they send shocks, they lose feeling, and the muscles stop working.  

There are entire textbooks on all the other changes that occur in a nerve due to diabetes. Surgeons are not able to help many changes that can occur, but the work done by Dr. Dellon and others in the past 15 years has reinforced the idea that many of the symptoms that well-controlled diabetic patients complain about can improve by taking pressure off the nerves as they travel through tight tunnels in the hands and feet. Therefore, if your blood sugar is stable, nerve decompression surgery may be a part of your recommended treatment plan. 

Although surgery can’t completely reverse the nerve damage caused by DPN, it can help to alleviate pain and improve function in your feet and hands. Allowing the nerve to recover significantly can lead to improved sensation, better balance, prevention of ulcers, and less pain.   

Now these procedures are not a panacea, and they are not a “get out of jail free” card.  If a patient allows their diabetes to spiral out of control, if a patient chooses to continue to smoke after it has been recommended to stop, or if a patient fails to take their health seriously, these procedures will have a high failure rate.   

Remember, the surgery addresses one problem of the entire complex picture of DPN: we focus on the swollen nerve in the tight tunnel. We also know that the longer the nerve has been affected and the more severe the disease has been, the less likely it becomes that the surgery will work—as the nerves have just been injured too long. It is hard to bring a nerve back from the dead. However, we can help a nerve that is dying if we get there soon enough.

If you’ve been unable to enjoy your favorite activities and spend time with loved ones because of pain from diabetic peripheral neuropathy, contact our office to see if nerve decompression might be an appropriate treatment option. Since 2007, Dr. Eric H. Williams has focused his medical practice on the surgical care and rehabilitation of lower extremity and upper extremity complex peripheral nerve syndromes, emphasizing nerve injury, entrapment, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy.  

How Does Nerve Decompression Surgery Help Diabetic Neuropathy?

Nerve decompression surgery may be used to treat the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy by relieving pressure on compressed nerves in the extremities. This pressure can be caused by a variety of factors, such as swelling of the nerve in a very tight tunnel, scar tissue, or trauma.

The goal of nerve decompression surgery is to identify and release the compressed nerve or nerves, allowing them to function normally again. This may involve making incisions in the affected area to access the nerve or nerves, followed by the removal of any sources of pressure or irritation, including tight fibrous tissue, and in some cases extra muscles. 

After nerve decompression surgery, you will likely need to limit your activity and wear a protective device or dressing to help protect the surgical site as it heals. Your surgeon may also recommend physical therapy or other rehabilitation exercises to help restore normal function to the affected nerve.

Research has shown that nerve decompression surgery can effectively reduce pain and improve sensation in people with symptoms from diabetic neuropathy, particularly in those with compression of the tibial or common peroneal and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves in the legs and the median and ulnar nerves in the legs or arms. 

However, not all cases of diabetic neuropathy can be improved with nerve decompression, and the effectiveness of nerve decompression surgery may vary depending on the individual case. 

Our Results Speak for Themselves

Our Baltimore surgical practice provides comprehensive care for those who suffer from peripheral nerve injuries, entrapments, and chronic pain or dysfunction. This includes people with nerve pain related to diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If you’d like to learn more about how we’ve helped others like you alleviate the painful symptoms of diabetic neuropathy and get back to making the most of each day, we encourage you to review our patient testimonials. 

For example, Dr. Williams helped a man with a history of diabetic peripheral neuropathy with entrapment of the tibial nerve at the tarsal tunnel as well as the proximal tibial nerve in the calf. The patient had diabetes for three years and struggled with numbness and pain for approximately 10 years. After nerve decompression surgery, he saw substantially reduced numbness, tingling, buzzing, and pain in his toes. Watch this testimonial video to learn more about this patient’s nerve decompression experience. 

Another one of our patients was similarly thrilled with her results just one week out from a tarsal tunnel release and decompression of the medial plantar, lateral plantar, and calcaneal nerves. Her previous care providers told her she had irreversible diabetic neuropathy, so she wondered if she’d simply be expected to live with numbness and pain forever. Then, after seeing Dr. Williams, she found hope for a brighter future. Even though it takes several weeks to see maximum results, she noticed substantial improvement in sensation just one week after her nerve decompression surgery. Watch this testimonial video to learn how nerve decompression helped improve her quality of life. 

 

Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can affect many organ systems, but this article refers to patients who have tingling, numbness, and pain in the feet and hands. Their symptoms are typically worse in the feet and have been described by some as intense burning, severe pins and needles, feet covered in ants, or walking on barbed wire. Some will complain of numbness and loss of balance. 

Patients tend to ignore these symptoms for long periods of time. Only when their condition is severely affecting their quality of life do they seek out medical attention. 

There are many different medications that have been tried to treat these painful symptoms, and some will be successful. However, research over the past 10 years performed and confirmed by several different teams in several countries has demonstrated that many patients diagnosed with diabetic peripheral neuropathy and treated only with medications also have nerve compressions in the feet and hands. This nerve compression may be the chief cause of their painful symptoms as well as the numbness that occurs. 

We know that decompressing a nerve that is pinched is the best way to treat a compressed nerve. Therefore, one solution for relief for patients suffering from symptoms of diabetic neuropathy might be adding nerve decompression treatment to the other standard treatment measures. However, finding the right physician is vital. You need to work with an experienced peripheral nerve surgeon to create an effective treatment plan to manage your condition and improve your quality of life.

Tips for Finding the Best Doctor for Diabetic Neuropathy

Take the following suggestions into account. Then, you can rest assured that you have the information you need to research professionals capable of providing quality care tailored to your needs.

Ask Your Primary Care Physician for a Referral 

After assessing your condition, your primary care physician can refer you to a specialist with experience in treating diabetic neuropathy pain.  This should include a referral to a peripheral nerve surgeon for evaluation. You may have to ask specifically for this referral as the published research on surgical management is still not widely circulated in the primary care fields, despite 15 years of pioneering research and publications of physicians like Dr. A. Lee Dellon, MD Ph.D.  

Talk to Friends and Family

If you know someone who suffers from pain due to diabetic neuropathy, ask them for a referral, along with what treatment methods were used and the type of results they achieved.

Do Thorough Research

You can search online for doctors in your area who specialize in treating diabetic neuropathy. You can look for peripheral nerve surgeons in your area. Look for physicians who have experience with this condition and positive patient reviews and testimonials. You may even consider watching videos on the doctor’s website to learn how nerve decompression helped other patients manage their neuropathy pain.

Look for Education and Experience

While some physicians might generally treat diabetes for daily management, others provide solutions that require more experience. Dr. Williams is a board-certified plastic surgeon with additional fellowship training in peripheral nerve surgery. He specializes in nerve compression surgery in diabetic patients as well as non-diabetic patients.  

What to Ask Potential Doctors

Once you narrow down the options, schedule in-person appointments with doctors who specialize in treating diabetic neuropathy. At your consultation, here are some key questions to ask: 

• What specific qualifications do you have to treat diabetic neuropathy pain? 
• How long have you been treating patients like me?
• What makes your practice unique and different from others in the area?
• What tests will be done to diagnose my diabetic neuropathy?
• What are the different treatment options for diabetic neuropathy, and which do you recommend for me?
• Who’s an ideal candidate for nerve decompression surgery?
• How successful have treatments such as nerve decompression been for other patients with diabetic neuropathy pain?
• What lifestyle changes can I make to manage my diabetic neuropathy symptoms?
• What are the potential complications of diabetic neuropathy, and how can I prevent them?
• How often should I schedule follow-up appointments to monitor my condition?

The answers each doctor provides and the level of comfort you experience help determine if they’re a good match for you. Remember, to ensure you receive the best possible care, arrive prepared for each appointment with your concerns and ask for specific treatment solutions. Dr. Williams will take the time necessary to address all issues and, after evaluating your individual symptoms and needs, determine the proper course of treatment.

Don’t Deal With Chronic Pain Any Longer

If you’re looking for a doctor to treat diabetic neuropathy, contact Dr. Eric H. Williams today. He’s a peripheral nerve expert who specializes in pain relief and reconstructive surgery, and will thoroughly assess your condition to determine if nerve decompression or another service can provide the relief you need. Find out more by calling our Baltimore office at (410) 709-3868 or by filling out our convenient online contact form.

Diabetic neuropathy is a severe diabetic complication that can cause pain and numbness in your extremities as well as other uncomfortable side effects. There are several different types of the condition, and if left untreated, they might lead to more grave health issues such as organ damage and even amputation. 

Pay attention to the signs of diabetic neuropathy and take action if you suspect you’re affected. The earlier you identify symptoms, the easier it is to address the condition and protect yourself from further complications. For example, to reduce the pain and symptoms associated with different types of diabetic neuropathy, Dr. Williams might recommend nerve decompression to relieve pressure on the affected nerve so you can return to enjoying the activities you once did.

Four Types of Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy occurs in various parts of the body, and it’s also possible to have more than one affected area and various symptoms. Additionally, for some patients, neuropathy happens gradually over time and isn’t noticeable until nerve damage has occurred.

The four types of diabetic neuropathy are:

• Peripheral. This is the most common condition, which affects the feet and legs first, and then the hands and arms. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, and burning sensations.
• Autonomic. This impacts the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, digestion, and bladder control. Symptoms include but aren’t limited to changes in blood pressure, heart rate, and digestive function.
• Proximal. This form of neuropathy occurs primarily in the hips, buttocks, and thighs, presenting symptoms such as pain, weakness, and difficulty moving.
• Mononeuropathy. This type affects a single nerve, most commonly in the face, torso, or leg, with symptoms like sudden weakness or pain in the affected area.

It's important to note that not everyone with diabetes develops neuropathy, and symptoms and severity of the condition vary widely among individuals. But if you’ve had a persistent problem with any of the symptoms outlined above, talk with your primary care provider to determine the underlying cause so the right treatment plan can be developed based on your specific needs. You might also need to consult with another medical specialist to rule out other non-peripheral nerve-related conditions.

Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment Options

If you’re suffering from diabetic nerve pain or other symptoms of neuropathy, such as burning or tingling, nerve decompression surgery may be a potential solution. By undergoing nerve decompression surgery, it’s possible to find relief from these painful symptoms. 

The surgery works by improving blood flow to damaged nerves throughout the body. By increasing circulation and reducing pressure on the nerves, surgeons can successfully reduce pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. Patients often report significant improvements in their quality of life after the surgery. 

Unfortunately, if left untreated, diabetic neuropathy can cause serious problems such as foot ulcers, infection, and amputation. Don’t wait to seek treatment until it’s too late. Dr. Williams can determine if nerve decompression surgery is the right option for you. However, not every person is a candidate for the procedure. Here are some of the key factors that determine your eligibility: 

• Your A1C level must be less than 8.5, and your diabetes must be well-controlled
• A weight of under 350 pounds
• No uncontrolled swelling or restricted blood flow in your feet
• No open or unhealed wounds
• The severity of the nerve damage

Contact Our Baltimore Office Today

If you’re concerned that diabetic neuropathy is affecting your quality of life, contact Dr. Williams today. He specializes in diabetic nerve decompression treatments to help reduce symptoms and increase mobility over time. Find out more by calling our office at 410-709-3868 or filling out our convenient online contact form.

Nerve decompression is a surgical procedure used to relieve pain caused by a compressed nerve in the body. It can be an effective treatment for some people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, but it is important to understand that not everyone will benefit from the surgery. In order to make an informed decision about whether or not nerve decompression is right for you, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor.

Success of Nerve Decompression for Those With Diabetes

Even though nerve decompression can work effectively for some people with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, it is not an option for everyone. Those who are ideal candidates for the procedure have symptoms of numbness and tingling, either with or without the presence of pain due to peripheral neuropathy. If there is only pain without numbness or tingling, they may not be a candidate for nerve decompression.

Determining if nerve decompression surgery will be a successful option for you depends on individual factors such as:

• The severity of your nerve damage
• Whether your diabetes is well-controlled and your HgbA1c is less than 8.5
• Weighing under 350 pounds
• Not having uncontrolled swelling or restricted blood flow in your feet or any current open wounds

What to Discuss With Your Doctor Before Surgery

Before deciding if nerve decompression surgery is right for you, there are certain things you should discuss with your doctor. These include:

• Your medical history, including any past surgeries
• Any medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and prescription medications
• Your current level of physical activity and lifestyle habits
• Risk factors associated with nerve compression surgery, such as anesthesia risks
• Recovery time frame and post-surgical care instructions 
• Potential complications or side effects 

If you are considering nerve decompression surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Williams. He can determine if you will benefit from surgery and create a treatment plan to fit your needs. Find out more by contacting our Baltimore office at (410) 709-3868 or by filling out our contact form online.

Related Links: Baltimore Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Compression Relief Why Finding Help for Pain Is Never a Lost Cause Is peripheral nerve surgery safe?

Diabetic nerve pain can be a debilitating condition, causing severe discomfort and making everyday activities like walking or even standing difficult. While medication is often the first course of treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy pain, the drugs can have undesirable side effects, such as weight gain and fatigue. If you are suffering from diabetic nerve pain, Dr. Williams can evaluate your condition to determine what treatments other than medication, such as nerve decompression surgery, may be an option for you to consider.

Nerve Decompression for Diabetic Nerve Pain

Nerve decompression is a surgical procedure to free compressed sections of nerves in the body to increase blood flow, allow the nerves to move more freely, and reduce pain caused by compression. This procedure has been shown to be effective for many people suffering from peripheral neuropathy by helping to relieve symptoms of nerve pain and restore mobility and function. If you are looking for an alternative to medication for diabetic nerve pain, speak with Dr. Williams about the possibility of undergoing a nerve decompression procedure.

With the proper treatment, you can regain control over your condition and live a more comfortable, pain-free life. In addition to having Dr. Williams perform nerve decompression surgery, you can do the following to manage symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy:

• Monitoring your blood sugar levels to keep them under control
• Increasing exercise and eating a healthy diet
• Quitting smoking
• Taking good care of your feet

Are You Looking for a Diabetic Nerve Pain Specialist?

If you suffer from diabetic nerve pain and are looking for treatment options other than medication, contact our office for an evaluation. Dr. Williams can determine if nerve decompression surgery is an option for you and will create a treatment plan to help ease your pain and get you back to living pain-free as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment in the Baltimore office, contact us at (410) 709-3868 or fill out our contact form online.

Related Links: Baltimore Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Nerve Compression Relief Is peripheral nerve surgery safe? Peripheral Neuropathy and Trauma