Diabetic neuropathy is a common result of long-term diabetes. The condition damages the nerves connecting the spinal cord and brain to the rest of the body. This can upset the normal flow of certain types of nerve impulses through the legs, arms and other parts of the body. The patient may lose the ability to feel pain, which is one way the body protects itself against injury. Nerve damage caused by diabetes can also affect how internal organs and body systems work, especially the heart, bladder, digestive system and sex organs.

About 60% of people with diabetes have some evidence of nerve damage, and 30 to 40% have nerve damage that causes symptoms. The condition can cause the patient to become disabled if it is not treated. Amputation (most often of a foot) may become necessary in severe cases when infection or poor blood flow is also present.

The exact cause of diabetic neuropathy is not known, but blood sugar level seems to have the greatest effect on neuropathy. The higher a person's blood sugar level, the greater the risk for developing neuropathy. Nerve damage increases the longer a person has diabetes. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may also increase the risk.

There is no known cure for diabetic neuropathy. Treatment focuses on preventing the development and slowing the course of the disease by keeping blood sugar levels within a safe range at all times. No treatment other than strict control of blood sugar has been proven to have an effect on the progression of diabetic neuropathy, but many treatments are available to ease symptoms.