Proximal Neuropathy

Diabetes can cause a series of complications to arise. One of the most common ones that afflicts many diabetics is known by many names, the most common of which is proximal neuropathy.

When a diabetic suffers from proximal neuropathy, they will experience pain that can range from the hips and buttocks down to the thighs. Being a form of neuropathy, it means that the nerves have been compressed or damaged. It is usually only present on one side of the body. The pain will often lead to a weakness, and/or numbness of the legs.

Proximal neuropathy is a complication of having diabetes mellitus, or type 2 diabetes- being more common in the latter. Out of all types of neuropathy, it is the least common and generally affects older people. This is due to a limited amount of activity for these individuals.

Pain can either come on gradually or it can hit as a sudden onslaught. The pain has the tendency to limit movement and mobility. The individual will not want to move about as it only adds to the level of pain.

There are several effective ways to handle proximal neuropathy. The first, and most important is to get glucose levels under control, as this is the main underlying reason for the condition. Your doctor may also prescribe insulin injections or even certain medications for the pain.

Some natural remedies such as Ginkgo Bilboa, Alpha Lipoic Acid and vitamin B have been successful in treatment. Your doctor may also recommend aspirin or ibuprofen for pain relief. In some instances, physical therapy may be beneficial.

Certain artificial stimulants, namely cigarettes and alcohol, are known to aggravate the condition. Both of these work to slow blood flow throughout the body. In the process, less nutrients and oxygen is being delivered. This is the last thing that you want if you have proximal neuropathy.