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Testing for Neuropathy (Abnormality of Nerve Function) Why Testing is Necessary? There are currently over 21 million people in the United States with diabetes, and it is estimated that there are over 150 million diabetics worldwide. Over 50% of these patients will develop diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If undetected and untreated or treated too late, this complication of diabetes causes loss of sensation in the extremities, hand and foot pain, foot ulcers and, ultimately amputation. In fact, over 70% of all amputations performed today, are a direct result of diabetic complications!!! Diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN) is a common, chronic and disabling complication of diabetes, occurring in approximately fifty percent of all diabetics. The earliest indication of DPN is nerve conduction abnormalities with the eventual development of lower extremity clinical signs that include decreased ankle reflexes and vibration sense, and finally obvious overt symptoms of sensory loss and weakness. Among patients with DPN, as many as 75% are asymptomatic and can only be identified with quantitative methods such as nerve conduction testing. Nerve conduction studies are the "gold standard" diagnostic tool for the assessment of neuropathies, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. NeuroMetrix testing evaluates the function of nerves and determines whether adequate nerve conduction is present or if conduction is impaired in some way necessitating treatment. Neurodiagnostic testing is very useful whenever one of our physicians feels there is a clinical indication of diabetic neuropathy or polyneuropathy. By performing this painless, non-evasive nerve conduction test, our physicians can make a definitive diagnosis of the patient's condition and thereby, more effectively and actively pursue the most effective treatment BEFORE serious negative diabetic complications occur. What to Expect? NeuroMetrix has revolutionized the way in which patients receive nerve conduction studies. The time, expense and inconvenience of referring out this testing very often means that patients do not get these valuable and time-sensitive test completed in a prompt manner, particularly early in the episode of care whenever the patient has the greatest chance of optimal response to treatment. The NeuroMetrix testing is done in our office by one of our trained podiatric nurses at a time that is convenient with your schedule. While some patients experience a "tingling" sensation, most patients say that the testing is painless. Testing typically takes from 30 to 40 minutes depending on the areas that are tested. Will Testing Costs Be Covered by My Insurance Company? Most insurance companies recognize that nerve conduction studies are a cost effective test, which allows the physician to make a prompt and definitive diagnosis and provides the patient with the greatest opportunity of responding to treatment in a timely manner. Thus, most insurance allow for ONE nerve conduction test in a twelve-month period, which they cover in accordance with their particular plan. However, as all insurance plans are unique, you need to check with your particular insurance provider to be sure that NeuroMetrix testing is covered by your individual policy. Should you have any questions on reimbursement, our insurance specialist will be happy to assist you.
Foot and Ankle of West Georgia, P.C. 
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