Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN) affects nearly 25% of people with diabetes, impacting over 100 million worldwide. It significantly impairs daily functioning, mood, sleep, financial stability, and quality of life. Despite its prevalence, PDPN is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. The condition requires a holistic approach alongside pharmacological therapy, as complete pain relief is rare, with a 30–50% reduction considered successful. Promising new treatments are in development, potentially transforming PDPN management.

Diagnosing PDPN involves clinical evaluations, nerve conduction studies, and questionnaires assessing pain and its impact. Guidelines from major health organizations recommend both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, with first-line options including gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants, and SNRIs. Treatment responses vary, often requiring a trial-and-error approach. Effective management depends on timely diagnosis, appropriate therapy, and consistent monitoring, with a growing focus on personalized medicine.

Reference: Preston FG, Riley DR, Azmi S, Alam U. Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: Practical Guidance and Challenges for Clinical Management. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes. 2023 Jun 2;16:1595-1612. doi: 10.2147/DMSO.S370050. PMID: 37288250; PMCID: PMC10243347.