The difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy is quite a common doubt in public, believing both ailments are same. Though Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy are two usual causes of foot pain, they differ in their symptoms and origin, which will be discussed in this blog.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
One of the topmost common causes for heel and foot ache is Plantar Fasciitis. It is triggered by swelling, irritation, and pain in the wide band of fascia (tissue) on the base of the foot, which streams from the heel to the toes. It is commonly characterized by inflamed plantar fascia. It takes about several weeks or months to get better, most likely on its own. One out of ten people get affected by this condition at some point in their lives, making it a common medical complaint.
What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Diabetic neuropathy indicates nerve damage that grows slowly, at times over numerous decades. It is a serious consequence of diabetes. Increased levels of blood glucose, which are a common aspect of diabetes, can destroy nerves in the entire body, specifically in the feet and legs. Nearby, almost half of people diagnosed with diabetes can experience diabetic neuropathy. Some medicine, like Gabasign 800, can help relieve the pain and other symptoms, but it cannot be permanently treated, making it a chronic condition, lasting for years or lifelong.
Key Differences between Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy
Some key difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy are:
| Points of Difference | Plantar Fasciitis | Diabetic Neuropathy |
| Cause | Swelling of the plantar fascia because of overuse and inappropriate foot usage | Nerve impairment due to prolonged high blood glucose level in diabetes |
| Site of Pain | Majorly in the bottom, arch, or heel of the foot | Legs, feet, or at times, hands, typically in the soles or toes |
| Pain Description | Intense, piercing pain, especially while taking the initial steps after waking up | Prickling, flaming, numbness, or needles-or-pins feeling. |
| Pain Duration | Critical in the morning or after a long span of standing or sitting | Pain could be consistent or severe at night |
| Onset of Symptoms | Slow onset, frequently following long-term standing, walking, or inaccurate footwear | Grows gradually over period, associated with the development of diabetes |
| Common Risk Factors | Flat feet, obesity, unsupported footwear, standing for a longer time, high arches | Improper management of diabetes over time, prolonged elevated levels of blood sugar, family history aspects |
| Treatment Choices | Rest, physical therapy, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medicines like Prebasun 450, ice, personalized insoles | Pain relievers, nerve pain medicines like Nervisign 300, blood glucose management, lifestyle changes, and topical therapy |
| Recovery Period | It gets better with treatment within weeks to months | Lifelong management, but the condition may get long-lasting and advancing |
| Movement Impact | Discomfort of pain influences walking, especially in the morning or standing up after a long duration. | Immobility and lack of sensation make it difficult to move or know of any injuries |
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis & diabetic neuropathy
One of the great difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy are its symptoms. Both these conditions cause foot pain, but it originates differently. Plantar Fasciitis triggers pain in the arch and heel of the foot, a sensation of stiffness or tightness in the foot, redness or swelling in the affected area, and a painful or burning feeling.
On the other hand, Diabetic Neuropathy can trigger reduced sensation or numbness, intense shooting pain, ulcers, changes in the foot shape, joint or bone damage, and tingling or burning sensations.
How Diabetes Causes Neuropathy and Foot Pain
Diabetes triggers neuropathy, where increased level of blood glucose over the period destroys the nerves. High blood glucose levels for longer periods will slowly result in nerve destruction, most prevailing in the feet and legs. This nerve injury could result in prickling and immobility, along with shooting pain, and frequently keeping it tough to sense pressure and injuries on the feet.
Individuals who have diabetes with diabetic neuropathy also experience nerve impairment, which influences their capability to recognize pain, leaving them excessively prone to foot pain. Minor injuries could go unattended without enough feeling that can let the infection grow or allow ulcers to develop.
Risk Factors for Both Conditions
Identifying risk factors for both conditions can allow exceptional prevention and handling of these medical complaints.
- Poorly managed blood sugar levels
- Genetics
- High arches or flat feet
- Prolonged walking or standing
- Age
- Ill-fitting footwear
- Advanced diabetes
- Poor lifestyle choices
How to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy?
The basics to prevent plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy start with healthy feet and concentrating on the medical problems. For Plantar Fasciitis, ignore walking barefoot on rigid ground and ensure you wear supportive footwear that is properly fitted. Frequently stretching feet and calves could also help minimize stress on the plantar fascia.
As far as diabetic neuropathy is concerned, the key precaution is to control the normal level of blood sugar. Eventually, controlling blood glucose levels could help significantly to avoid nerve impairment in combination with Gabatop 400 mg treatment. Individuals with diabetes also need regular foot checkups, as nerve damage may desensitize the feet, leading to infections or injuries going neglected.
The Impact of Footwear on Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy
Though there is difference between Plantar Fasciitis and Diabetic Neuropathy, but appropriate fit footwear is important to avoid both these conditions. The perfect footwear offers proper support, divides pressure, and could ease out pain from these problems.
- Arch support benefits you from not putting too much stress.
- Spongy material eases foot pressure.
- Broad toe box promotes comfort.
- Cushioned soles absorb impact.
- Keeps feet dry with permeable fabric.
Footwear and Diabetic Neuropathy
For patients with Diabetic Neuropathy, footwear can significantly affect the condition. Selecting the correct footwear is important for avoiding foot ulcers and further foot-related complications. Diabetic footwear, usually with extra support, cushioning, and a broad toe box, assists in dividing the pressure and securing the feet.
FAQs
How do I know if my foot pain is due to diabetes?
Neuropathy typically increases numbing, tingling, or burning, especially in the toes. When you feel a needles-and-pins sensation or a numb feeling in the foot pain, it can be nerve damage due to diabetes.
Can plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy occur together?
Yes, plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy can occur together, specifically in patients with diabetes.
How are plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy treated?
Options for treating these conditions can include resting, icing, and pain relievers from Specialitymedz.com, physical therapy, and stretching.
What part of the foot hurts with diabetes?
Most particularly, diabetes may result in neuropathy, a condition that initiates foot pain in the toes, heels, and soles.
Reference
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetic-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20371580
https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007021.htm
https://tetonfootandankle.com/blog/diabetes-plantar-fasciitis-what-you-need-to-know