proximal neuropathy

[timps]

Does anyone know what this is please
carole

 

[IanD]

DIABETIC PROXIMAL NEUROPATHY

DIAGNOSTIC CLUES: DIABETIC PROXIMAL NEUROPATHY

Among symptoms neurologists can look for are:

* relatively rapid onset of pain and weakness, typically in one leg and involving the proximal muscles around the hip and knee, that spreads rapidly over a period of weeks to months;

* pain that is exacerbated at night;

* progression from pain to weakness involving muscles in the proximal portion of the legs such as the vastus lateralis, the adductor, and buttock muscles; and

* autonomic symptoms, including changes in sexual, bowel, and bladder function and unexplained weight loss.

While I was never specifically diagnosed with DPN the Dr suspected it on diagnosis 12 years ago, & I self-diagnosed it 4 years ago. I was playing tennis in March, & crippled in April. A low carb diet clear the problem in 3 months - & I am free from it 4 years on.

This is from emails still on my system:

(6 April, 2008 )
This looks like the problem - I now need the answer.

Proximal neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that causes pain and weakness in the hips, thighs and buttocks. The symptoms may grow more severe as the condition worsens. For many people, proximal neuropathy interferes with the ability to stand from a sitting position.

(24 November, 2008)
As a diabetic, & with Ann's heart trouble, I have had to get interested in diet. Earlier this year, I suffered intense muscle pains (Proximal neuropathy) which was disabling me. I had difficulty getting out of bed, & had to get the AA to drive me back from West Midlands.

"Proximal neuropathy, sometimes called lumbosacral plexus neuropathy, femoral neuropathy, or diabetic amyotrophy, starts with pain in the thighs, hips, buttocks, or legs, usually on one side of the body. This type of neuropathy is more common in those with type 2 diabetes and in older adults with diabetes. Proximal neuropathy causes weakness in the legs and the inability to go from a sitting to a standing position without help. Treatment for weakness or pain is usually needed. The length of the recovery period varies, depending on the type of nerve damage."

The Dr prescribed quinine, I think hoping it was cramp & not PN. It didn't help. After struggling out of bed, I started the day with aspirin. I then got interested in a diabetes forum where some were recommending rejecting the NHS/Diabetes UK diet in favour of a drastic reduction in carbohydrates. I tried it & the improvement was rapid. There was an immediate reduction in my blood sugar measurements, & in less that 3 months the pain was gone. Blood tests showed I was better on many measurable factors. I have no known allergies.