When we think about diabetes, most of us immediately think of blood sugar levels. But one of the most common and troublesome complications of diabetes is something many people may not have heard of: diabetic neuropathy. This is nerve damage caused by persistently high blood sugar, and it most commonly affects the feet and legs.
Over time, high glucose levels can damage the tiny blood vessels that supply the nerves. Without sufficient blood flow, nerves don’t work as they should. Other factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking can make things worse. For people over 45, where circulation is naturally slowing and other health conditions may be present, the risks are even higher.
Spotting the symptoms
The early signs of neuropathy can be subtle — tingling in the feet, burning sensations, or shooting pains, often worse at night. As the condition progresses, many people lose feeling altogether in their feet and toes.
That might sound like a relief from pain, but numbness can be dangerous. Without sensation, it’s easy to miss small cuts, blisters or pressure points from shoes. These minor injuries can turn into infections or ulcers, sometimes leading to serious complications.
Neuropathy can also affect movement. Weakness in the feet and legs, poor balance, and a greater risk of falls are all common as the condition advances. Everyday activities — walking on uneven ground, climbing stairs, even just moving around the house in low light — can become a challenge.
How it affects daily life
For many over 45s, these changes can have a big impact on independence and confidence. The fear of tripping or falling often leads people to cut back on activity. Unfortunately, that reduction in movement then leads to weaker muscles, stiffer joints and an even higher fall risk — a cycle that’s difficult to break.
Managing the condition
The good news is there’s a lot that can be done to manage diabetic neuropathy and protect mobility:
- Keep blood sugar under control — this slows the progression of nerve damage.
- Check your feet every day — catching a blister or cut early can prevent serious problems.
- Wear protective footwear — shoes should fit well and reduce rubbing or pressure.
- Stay active with physiotherapy — strengthening muscles, improving balance, and keeping joints flexible makes a real difference.
- Manage pain properly — whether with medication, therapy or other strategies.
A newer treatment that’s generating interest is called Stimpod therapy. It’s a form of electrical stimulation designed to “wake up” damaged nerves. Early reports suggest it can reduce pain and, in some cases, even improve sensation. While it isn’t available everywhere yet, it offers real hope for people struggling with symptoms and with the clients I have used it with so far, it is offering some very encouraging results.
Final word
Diabetic neuropathy is a serious complication, but it doesn’t have to take away independence. By staying alert to the symptoms, looking after your feet, staying active, and exploring new treatments where appropriate, it’s possible to maintain mobility and quality of life well into later years.
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Ed graduated from Birmingham University with an MSc in Physiotherapy in 2009.
He is an HCPC and CSP registered Physiotherapist who has worked in the NHS, private practice and in sport both in the UK and New Zealand, and he now specialises in working with people over the age of 50 who value their health and want to keep as active as possible for as long as possible.
In his spare time, you’ll find Ed spending time with his wife and two children, out running the local trails with his dog, or if he’s really lucky, out on the golf course.
Ed grew up in Stroud, the son of a local GP and he knows and loves the local communities in the Five Valleys and beyond. Being able to give back to the people of this wonderful part of the world is something that Ed considers a huge privilege.
For further information, visit Ed’s website by clicking HERE or Email: edvossphysio@gmail.com Call: 07542 940478
