What Causes Intermittent Sharp Pain In Feet In A Diabetic?

Posted on Thu, 27 Aug 2015

Question: I have foot neuropathy due to diabetes. I am a very active 72 years old, and have had Type 2 diabetes for at least 20 years. Occassionally I will get an episode of sharp shots of pain (2-8 minute intervals) in a localized area in one or the other of my feet. It can last for as little as 6 hours, but lately has lasted as long as 18 hours. Episodes are as much as one or two months apart. It can make sleeping very difficult. Is there anything I can do to reduce or eliminate the pain?

Answered by Dr. Pankaj Borade (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
following suggestions can be discussed with your doctor

Detailed Answer:
Dear,
welcome to HCM
I can understand the pain and distress that you must be through at present.
We have an establish condition of a long standing diabetes and complication of a peripheral neuropathy.
Considering this out approach would consist of
1) controlling the blood sugar levels.
in this regarding I would suggest a regular monitering of blood sugar levels, maintaing strict diabetic diet, and checking HB1AC levels regularly every 3-4 months months.
2) Regarding the management of neuropathic pain- there is a good evidence of certain medication like nortryptyline, and or gabapentin proving useful in controlling the neuropathic pain.
Or a night time dose of gabapentin can take care of sleep issues as well.
There addition can certainly discussed with your treating consultant.
There is good evidence of antidepressant class of drug like duloxetine to be effective.
These drugs require prescription from the doctor, Therfore Consulating and discussing these with your treating CONSULATANT is advisable.the
3) practice of proper and comfortable footwear can help in avoiding future problems.

kindly revert back for further queries.
Regards,
Dr Pankaj B

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D