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Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN)

Additional Conditions

Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN)

Burning, tingling, and shooting nerve pain in the feet and legs caused by long-term diabetes-related nerve damage.

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Diagnoses

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Treatments

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FAQs

SCOPES

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Condition Definition

PDN is chronic peripheral nerve damage from long-term hyperglycemia, typically beginning distally (stocking pattern) with painful and sensory symptoms.

Common Causes

Mechanisms include oxidative stress, impaired microvascular supply, and metabolic nerve injury. Risk rises with prolonged diabetes and poor glycemic control.

Typical Symptoms

Common symptoms include burning, tingling, electric shocks, allodynia, nocturnal worsening, numbness, and progressive balance weakness in advanced disease.

SCOPES Clinical Approach

SCOPES Health integrates interventional neuropathic pain care with diabetes management. Evidence-based options include SCS and selected PNS/DRG pathways in refractory cases, coordinated with endocrinology/primary care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can painful diabetic neuropathy be reversed?

Underlying nerve damage is often not reversible, but progression can be slowed and pain can be significantly reduced with coordinated treatment.

Why does pain get worse at night?

Reduced competing daytime sensory input can make neuropathic signaling more prominent at rest.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified physician. Talk with a doctor about your specific condition and treatment options. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

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