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November 21, 2009
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Diabetes Q&A by Dr. Mathur

I have diabetic neuropathy all over my body (legs, feet, skin is very sensitive to temperature and clothing). Anything touching my skin feels like sandpaper, and temperature changes cause me to have the shakes and severe pain. The pain medication I have been using isn't working. What are treatment options for a patient with diabetic neuropathy?

Medical Author Dr. Ruchi Mathur
Medical Editor Dr. Melissa Conrad Stoppler

Answer:

There are newer medications on the market that may be of benefit called duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Lyrica. You should speak with your doctor about the possibility of trying these agents either alone or in combination with other medication. I would also suggest having a referral to a neurologist for a full evaluation to make certain there is nothing else exacerbating your condition (for example, underlying never disorders, sciatica, etc) and perhaps consider getting an evaluation to look at the blood circulation in the legs. Claudication (an intermittent, cramping pain in the legs that occurs with walking that is related to poor blood circulation) can exacerbate neuropathic pain.

Best of luck and thank you for your question.


Last Editorial Review: 11/28/2006



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