Diabetics & Back Pain

According to the National Institute of Diabetes, about 60 to 70 percent of those who suffer from diabetes will have some sort of diabetic neuropathy. This can cause back pain and many other symptoms. People that have had diabetes for 25 years or longer are at the greatest risk of developing this condition.

Identification

• Diabetic neuropathies are a group of nerve disorders that are caused by diabetes. These disorders can cause back pain, as well as nerve problems in other organs.

Symptoms

• Diabetics that have back pain from diabetic neuropathy may also have tingling and numbness in the affected area. A loss of feeling in the arms, hands, feet and legs are also common, but any nerve in the body can be affected.

Topical Treatments

• Diabetics that have back pain may benefit from the use of topical patches and creams. Lidocaine patches that are placed on the skin of the back may help relieve nerve pain, as well as capscaicin creams.

Medication

• There are medications that may be helpful in reducing the back pain associated with diabetic neuropathy. These may include antidepressants, anticonvulsants and opioid pain relievers. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprophen are not recommended for nerve pain.

Considerations

• If you are diabetic and experiencing persistent back pain, consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of the condition. Keeping blood sugar levels within normal limits, controlling blood pressure and maintaining a normal body weight may help reduce your risk of diabetic neuropathy.