Diabetic amyotrophy (lumbosacral plexopathy)

Overview

It usually affects one thigh first, with deep pain, then weakness and weight loss.

Pain often improves first, then strength slowly returns.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Thigh pain and weakness
• Hip pain

Less common

• Weight loss
• Trouble standing from a chair

Look up a symptom: Losing weight without trying · Muscle weakness in arms or legs

When to get medical care

Causes

Diabetes.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Type 2 diabetes

Possible complications

• Falls and fall risk: From weak thigh muscles

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• EMG:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Control blood sugar
• Physical therapy
• Use a cane or walker for safety

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Living with it

• Check your blood sugar as your care team advises.
• Check your feet every day for cuts or sores.
• Wear a medical ID and carry a fast sugar, like glucose tabs.
• Get a yearly eye exam and kidney test.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Diabetes Association: Help line 1-800-342-2383, education, and local programs.
• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults with type 2 diabetes: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most improve over 1 to 2 years.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Diabetic amyotrophy (lumbosacral plexopathy)