Hi, I have had diabetes for about 10 years, and PN started about that time also. It has come on very gradual for me but ever worsening. I have been to many doctors and even the Cleveland Clinic. I have had unsuccessful surgery for a spinal cord stimulator. My feet are mostly numb, except for LOTS of pain (ya gotta laugh at the irony) And I am only 51.

My hands are now being affected and I get a tingling on the back of my neck. I read where this condition presents in different ways on different people. I have found that to be true. My sister has very little pain but more problems with numbness, ( broken toes, and bones in her feet and balance problems). I can't stand for my feet to be even warm, sleeping with an ice bag facilitates that. My husband means it when he says my feet are ice cold. LOL

Currently I take 4 darvocet a day...7 neurontin for my PN. I went to a neuro dr. and he put me on oxyconton...that was a nightmare! I became used to the 10 mg the first month and needed 20 mg. Then when I needed to up it again dr. said no and sent me to the surgeon for the spinal cord stim. mentioned above. Between the unsuccessful surgery and cold turkey on the oxyconton I really went crazy. With the help of my family, and Zoloft I made it through the black hole. After 6 months I quit the Zoloft gradually.

That was about 3 years ago. I work as a cook and am on my feet all day, however the PN does not seem to be affected by my work and I need the hospitalization my job provides. I have heard other people say their PN is worse when they are on their feet too much. Guess I'm lucky. I do wear New Balance sneakers they seem to be the most comfortable, and of course I wear soft padded socks all the time.

My life is very full with work and family. I have 3 grown daughters, 2 live within 20 minutes of home, with 3 grandchildren. Also my husband started dialysis 6 months ago and has his up and down days too. I guess the best tip I can pass on is to keep your sense of humor.....sometimes ya just gotta laugh at this unbelievable PN.

Thanks for listening,

Roberta
ROBERTAORRES@aol.com

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