What is Diabetic Amyotrophy?

Diabetic amyotrophy is an uncommon type of diabetic neuropathy or nerve injury.

It also has other names:

• Proximal diabetic neuropathy
• Diabetic lumbar radiculoplexus neuropathy
• Bruns-Garland Syndrome
• Diabetes-induced femoral-sciatic neuropathy

This consequence is uncommon, affecting just approximately 1% of persons with diabetes. It is less common among those with type 1 diabetes. It is more likely to affect men.

This diabetes-related consequence causes pain and muscle loss in the hips, thighs, buttocks, and legs. It can also affect the chest and abdomen.

What are the symptoms of diabetes-related amyotrophy?

The symptoms of diabetes-related amyotrophy primarily involve your hip, buttock, and/or thigh. They are:

• Severe neuropathic pain (typically the first symptom).
• Muscle weakness.
• Muscle atrophy (loss).
• Lack of reflexes (areflexia).

These symptoms typically begin suddenly on just one side of your body but can eventually spread to the other. The initial pain can last for weeks to months. Weakness usually continues to progress for several months after the pain has improved. Diabetes-related amyotrophy can worsen for up to 18 months. In the worst phase, it's often difficult to walk without assistance.

The symptoms then stabilize and gradually improve. Recovery may take months.

Some people who have diabetes-related amyotrophy also lose weight for no apparent reason-often over 10 pounds. Some individuals have pain and weakness of muscle in the trunk or arms.

What is known about the cause of diabetes-related amyotrophy?

Researchers are not sure what the cause of diabetes-related amyotrophy is, but they are studying it.

There’s increasing evidence that it’s a type of microvasculitis triggered by immune system-related inflammation. Microvasculitis is inflammation of small blood vessels. Researchers think that an over-reaction of your immune system causes inflammation that damages blood vessels that support the nerves in your hip and leg region.

Studies show that diabetes-related amyotrophy typically involves damage to your:

• Nerve roots: The nerves that emerge from your spinal cord.
• Peripheral nerves: The nerves that branch off nerve roots.
• Lumbosacral plexus: This is a network of nerves that supplies sensation and muscle function to your leg.

How do you get diagnosed with diabetic amyotrophy?

A process of elimination typically diagnoses this illness.

Your physician may send you to a neurologist or another diabetes expert for further diagnostic work if your doctor believes that you may be suffering from diabetic amyotrophy. Such tests may include:

• A lumbar puncture is aimed at determining inflammation in the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding your spinal cord. You will also undergo nerve conduction studies where your nerves of the legs will be checked
• An MRI of your lower back to rule out compression of nerves around the spine
• You may be tested for weakness and muscle wasting, especially in your legs, with a specific focus on leg reflexes.

Your medical team will likely order the CBC panel. Other lab tests may also be ordered to check specifically for vitamin deficiencies, including folate, vitamin B12, thiamine, and copper levels.

Since diabetic amyotrophy is diabetes-related, A1C testing and your ability to manage the condition will usually be discussed at this time.

What does the risk factors for diabetes amyotrophy?

Diabetes-related amyotrophy tends to impact people suffering from diabetes though scientists do not know why; sometimes, patients who do not suffer from this condition experience its symptoms.

The risk factor of diabetes amyotrophy consists of:

• Type 2 diabetes.
• For instance, rapid blood sugar control (such as going from an A1C of 11% to 7% in a month).
• Tight blood sugar control (this usually means an A1C that is less than 7%).
• Other potential risk factors, or triggers, include:
• Diabetes treatment initiation.
• Trauma.
• Infections.
• Immunizations.

What is the treatment for diabetes-related amyotrophy?

Nearly all people with diabetes-related amyotrophy have some recovery of function without medical treatment. However, a lack of treatment may make the healing process slower and/or incomplete.

Researchers are still studying effective treatments for diabetes-related amyotrophy. You may be able to qualify for a clinical trial. Ask your provider if this is an option.

Otherwise, providers mainly recommend treatments for symptom management. Treatments may include:

• Pain control: Your doctor may prescribe drugs such as NSAIDs to help manage pain. Amitriptyline can help treat pain and insomnia at night. If your pain is serious, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medicines, or you may need to stay in a hospital.
• Physical therapy: Your physical therapist will create a personal exercise plan and movements for the affected body parts to get you using that part of the body. Most exercises can help relieve pain and help muscles regain strength.
• Occupational therapy: An occupational therapist will help you improve your ability to do daily tasks that are affected by diabetes-related amyotrophy. They may recommend assistive or mobility devices, like a walker or wheelchair, to help make tasks easier.

It’s also important to continue managing your blood sugar levels well to help prevent other types of diabetes complications.

Can I prevent diabetes-related amyotrophy?

Since researchers are not aware of the cause of the condition, you cannot do anything to prevent the condition.

What is the prognosis for diabetes-related amyotrophy?

This is a self-contained disease, meaning you will get better, but recovery can be long and unpredictable. Approximately 10% of patients are wheelchair-dependent two years after the onset of symptoms. Many patients have some degree of permanent weakness.

Although it is an isolated condition, visiting a doctor regarding diabetes-related amyotrophy is important. Physiotherapy can accelerate the time for your recovery.

Symptoms can last from several months to up to two years. Recovery then may take months to years. Many people experience lasting symptoms such as weakness, though they're much milder than when the condition is at its worst.

How do I take care of myself if I have diabetes-related amyotrophy?

In addition to medical care, here are some ways you can take care of yourself:

• Dependence on others: Diabetes-related amyotrophy can prevent you from performing many of your previous self-care activities. Consider enlisting support from loved ones during recovery.
• Psychological therapy: Diabetes-related amyotrophy can lead to depression and/or anxiety. If the condition causes you distress or isolation, talk to a mental health professional, as a therapist or psychologist for assistance.

When should I see my doctor?

You’ll likely see your doctor regularly if you have diabetes-related amyotrophy to monitor its progress and to make sure your treatment plan is helping. If your symptoms get worse or change, talk to your provider.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Diabetic Amyotrophy Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Diabetic Amyotrophy treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced neurologists and endocrinologists who provide accurate diagnosis and both non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options including blood sugar management, pain control, and physiotherapy-based rehabilitation procedures. Our Neurology and Endocrinology team has decades of experience in successfully treating Diabetic Amyotrophy in Lucknow, India. 

To seek an Expert Consultation for Diabetic Amyotrophy Treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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