Pharmacological and Nonpharmacological therapies in the Management of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetes :A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Diabetes is a form of chronic illness usually requiring glycemic monitoring, self-management education and support to prevent acute complications and to reduce the risk of long-term complications. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) implies damage or loss of function of the peripheral nerves. Though there are a number of theories trying to postulate the exact mechanism for DPN, still there remains a dearth in literature as to the exact cause for DPN. Two main problems can result from loss or damage to the sensory nerve fibers. The first problem is loss of the sensation for pain. This increases the likelihood of ulcers in diabetic population. The second problem is a small fiber dysfunction seen in DPN which exhibits itself clinically as heightened sensation of pain and burning sensations that can be quite uncomfortable for the patient suffering from type 2 diabetes. This review discusses about the available pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies for glycemic control and management of painful (small fiber dysfunction) neuropathy in type 2 diabetes.