A survey of treatment practices in diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate provider practices for identification and treatment of painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).


METHODS
A questionnaire was distributed to healthcare providers attending educational programs in New England.


RESULTS
The survey was completed by 357 providers. Although generally ineffective in neuropathic pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were prescribed by 31% of providers. Only 57% providers used a quantitative pain scale to evaluate pain. The effectiveness of medications was assessed at least frequently by 70% of providers and at every visit by 22% providers.


CONCLUSIONS
The results reiterate the need for routinely monitoring patients with painful DPN and using appropriate pain scales.
Possidente
Carl J
CJ
Pfizer, Inc., PO Box 1021, Jericho Center, VT 05465, USA. carl.possidente@pfizer.com
Tandan
Rup
R
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003929:Diabetic Neuropathies / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006282:Health Personnel; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010523:Peripheral Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal