Simple tests to check feeling and muscular functions in the feet are performed annually at the clinic. The working of the nerves and muscles in the feet is examined by a doctor, podiatrist or chiropodist or a nurse specialising in feet.
Loss of feeling on the foot is checked using a flexible strand called a monofilament, normally in at least three separate places on the foot. If necessary, the vibration sense and tendon reflex are also checked. If the feet are in an incorrect position or if walking is troublesome, it may be a sign of damage to the muscular nerves.
In a typical case of diabetic nerve damage, basic blood tests may be enough to examine the symptoms and additional tests may not be required. If necessary, further examinations can be carried out based on the symptoms on a case-by-case basis.
If the symptoms are atypical and potential nerve damage resulting from the back or a trapped nerve is suspected, another option is an ENMG test to test the functioning of large nerve fibres. The abbreviation comes from the words electro neuro-myography.