Chronic hyperglycemia causes nerve damage. Statistics indicate that approximately 50% of diabetic patients develop neuropathy, among which peripheral neuropathy is the most common type, accounting for about 75% of all diabetic neuropathies. Clinical manifestations vary depending on whether large nerve fibers or small nerve fibers are damaged. Early symptoms are subtle. As the condition progresses, patients may experience bilateral distal symmetric limb pain, numbness, hypoesthesia, and classic “stocking-and-glove” sensory deficits. Early detection and timely intervention are critical. Below are four simple, practical self-examination methods that can be easily performed at home.
- Temperature Sensation Test
Prepare one cup of warm water (40–45°C) and one cup of cold boiled water. Gently touch the dorsal foot skin alternately with the bottom of each cup. An inability to perceive temperature changes indicates potential nerve impairment requiring medical attention. - Tactile Sensation Test
Lightly stroke the dorsal and plantar surfaces of the feet with cotton wool or thin paper strips to detect touch perception. Compare responses bilaterally. Significant reduction or loss of tactile sensation in any area suggests nerve damage. - Pressure Sensation Test
Use fine bristles from a shoe brush or bed brush. Gently press the pulp of the big toe, heel, and dorsal foot until bristles bend approximately 1 cm, holding pressure for 1–2 seconds. Ask the subject to identify exact contact locations. Failure to perceive two or more sites constitutes an abnormal result. - Ankle Reflex Examination
Have the subject kneel on a bed or chair with feet suspended freely. Gently tap the Achilles tendon with a small reflex hammer or phone edge. Observe whether calf muscle contraction (foot plantar flexion) occurs. This physiological reflex absence indicates neurological abnormality.
Note: While self-screening facilitates early problem identification, it cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. Seek immediate clinical evaluation if self-tests show abnormalities or if worsening foot pain, ulcers, or infections develop. Additionally, type 2 diabetes patients should undergo peripheral neuropathy screening at diagnosis; type 1 patients require screening 5 years post-diagnosis, followed by annual reassessments. Prediabetic individuals with neuropathic symptoms should also receive screening. Clinicians confirm diagnosis through specialized examinations including nerve conduction velocity testing and electromyography.