Nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes is called Diabetic Neuropathy. This condition is a complicaiton of diabetes.

Causes of Nerve Damage
In people with Diabetes, the body's nerves can be damaged by decreased blood flow and a high blood sugar level. This condition is more likely when the blood sugar level is not well controlled. About half of people with diabetes develop nerve damage. Symptoms often do not begin until many years after diabetes has been diagnosed. Some persons who have diabetes that develops slowly already have nerve damage when they are first diagnosed.

Symptoms of Nerve Damage
Symptoms often develop slowly over many years. The types of symptoms you have depend on the nerves that are affected. Nerves in the feet and legs are most often affected. Symptoms usually start in the toes and feet, and include tingling or burning, or deep aching pain. Over time, nerve damage can also occur in the fingers and hands. As the damage gets worse, you will likely lose feeling in your feet and legs. Your skin will also become numb. Because of this, you may:
-- Not notice when you step on something sharp
-- Not know that you have a blister or small cut
-- Not notice when your feet or hands touch something that is too hot or cold

Treatment of Nerve Damage
Follow your health care provider's advice on how to slow diabetic nerve damage. Control your blood sugar (glucose) level by:
-- Eating healthy foods
-- Getting regular exercise
-- Checking your blood sugar as often as instructed and keeping a record of your numbers so that you know the types of foods and activities that affect your blood sugar level
-- Taking medicine or insulin as instructed by your health care provider