Diabetic Proximal Neuropathy Symptoms: an Overview

There are four different types of diabetic neuropathy, each having their own distinct symptoms and treatment.  Proximal neuropathy symptoms differentiate themselves from the other types in several distinct ways.

First, proximal neuropathy affects the functioning of nerves in the buttocks, thighs, and hips rather than affecting the ends of nerves like the more common type of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

The symptoms are usually sudden and drastic and seemingly appear overnight.  In fact, the sufferer can often remember the exact time or day that the painful symptoms first appeared.  It feels like a relentless burning or jabbing in the affected area and usually quickly leads the victim to seek out medical care.

The pain is often so intense that it is difficult to sleep, and narcotics are often required to alleviate the pain.  Sometimes a person is unable to walk in sometimes even confined to a wheelchair, and the quality of life is significantly reduced.

Secondly, proximal neuropathy usually affects people in middle age or the elderly, and it is much rarer for it to afflict younger people.  This differs from peripheral neuropathy which is known to affect people of all ages, although it is still more common with increasing age.

Also, proximal neuropathy is unique in that the pain normally presents itself in an asymmetrical pattern.  In other words, it affects one side of the body and not the other, or at least one side much more than the other.  This is in direct contrast with peripheral neuropathy which almost always presents itself symmetrically in either the hands or the feet.

Other symptoms include muscle weakness and muscle atrophy.  Sufferers often experience lack of muscle coordination and muscle strength, manifesting itself in an inability to rise from a sitting position or perform other common muscular movements.  Weight loss and loss of appetite are also common.

The onset of pain is instant and very intense, however, usually peaks after a few weeks to three months, with three months being in the farthest range.  Thankfully, during this time the symptoms usually peak and then slowly dissipate.

Diabetic neuropathy is most common among those with diabetes mellitus, or type II diabetes.  Proximal neuropathy is quite rare in comparison to peripheral neuropathy as it affects less than one in 100 people with diabetes.

Scientists are unsure of exactly how uncontrolled blood glucose levels affect functioning of the nerves, but they are certain that there is a connection between the two.  Proximal diabetic neuropathy is usually reversible after the initial few weeks or months of intense pain.

The best treatment for the disease is tight control blood glucose levels through proper eating habits and nutrition, and medication if necessary, and good physical fitness.  Antidepressant and pain medication are common prescriptions for the symptoms of proximal diabetic neuropathy.

Treatment sometimes includes physical therapy which is helpful for reclaiming muscle strength and flexibility.  Acupuncture is also sometimes but at this time is still considered an alternative therapy.

The length of time for full recovery varies depending on the type and extent of the nerve damage, and whether or not the patient is able to successfully control his diabetes.