EMG testing

I am a 63 year old man and have been diagnosed type 2 diabetic for about 20 years, insulin dependent for last 5. Recently I moved to FL and changed primary physicians. I discovered that my blood sugar levels have not been as well controlled by my former doctor as they should have been. Now they are well controlled with combination of Novolin N and glucophage I also take accupril for hypertension daily. I have severe pain in my legs, numbness in my toes and feet and aching in my knees and hips. The soles of my feet

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-PW]

Diabetes can cause both peripheral vascualar disease and a peripheral neuropathy (damage to nerves)

You most likely have both, as the symptoms you describe are more suggestive of neuropathy than vascular insuffieciency (although the vascular issues may be contributing)

A good test is an EMG needle study and nerve conduction studies to evaluate for a problem with the nerves. The diagnosis is also clinical though and you should see a good neurologist for a neurological examination. Treatment is based on good sugar control and nerve pain medications for neuropathy like neurontin, amitryptaline, and pregabalin. Other causes of neuropathy are less likely but can be ruled out by simple blood test eg vitamin deficiency, underactive thyroid etc

Good luck

[Fa208]

A related discussion, Addition test after EMG was started.