Peripheral neuropathy refers to any condition that causes damage to the peripheral nervous system. Often, the symptoms progress slowly and insidiously. So, by the time patients notice issues, significant impairment may have already occurred. 

Because the peripheral nerves control everything from a patient’s ability to walk, digest, sweat, and more, these impairments impact many aspects of daily life. The condition can also significantly affect safety in older people. Here’s what your patients and their caregivers need to know about living with peripheral neuropathy and enhancing their safety.

More than 415 million adults live with diabetes worldwide, and the global burden is predicted to continue rising, with an estimated 642 million struggling with the condition by 2040. Many people who have diabetes are undiagnosed, which ramps up their chances of experiencing complications such as nephropathy, retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and peripheral neuropathy. 

In the United States alone, costs associated with diabetes total more than $327 billion. More than one-quarter of these expenses is directly related to peripheral neuropathy. Fortunately, advances in care are changing the game when it comes to peripheral neuropathy and patient-centered care.