Leeds Teaching Hospitals offers new hope to diabetic patients

New data shows that diabetes continues to affect a growing number of people across Leeds.

Over 50,000 Leeds residents aged 17 were recorded on their GP practice's diabetes register, representing over six per cent of the registered population.

Diabetes remains a significant public health concern in the region, with prevalence particularly high in Leeds's most deprived areas as these communities tend to face a higher incidence of related risk factors, such as obesity, underscoring the continued link between deprivation and long-term health conditions.

Painful Diabetic Neuropathy, which affects around 1 in 3 people with diabetes, occurs when high blood sugar levels damage nerves.

Most common in the feet and legs, it can also affect the hands and arms. Symptoms may include electric-shock-like pain, burning or stabbing, as well as tingling, numbness, and loss of sensation. They can make simple activities such as walking, sleeping, or wearing shoes extremely difficult.

Nerve damage can cause balance problems, foot ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputation, whilst persistent pain often leads to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal - dramatically reducing quality of life.

Until recently, treatment options for PDN were limited to medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or opioids, which often provide only partial relief and can cause unwanted side effects.

Dr Black, who is a clinician at Leeds Teaching Hospitals - a nationally recognised centre of excellence for pain management - says the introduction of the therapy for the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy at the clinic represents a significant step forward in helping thousands of sufferers across Leeds.

Once an active member of his community, working as a school crossing person and playground supervisor, Paul led a busy, outdoor lifestyle. But six years ago, while out walking, he was suddenly struck by severe burning pain in his feet.

What began as discomfort quickly escalated into agony, leaving him unable to walk. Following visits to his GP and further tests at his local Pain Clinic, Paul was diagnosed with painful diabetic neuropathy (p-DPN) - a chronic condition that left him in constant pain and severely limited his mobility and sleep.

For years, Paul’s life was dominated by what he described as “taser toes” - an intense burning and electric shock sensation that robbed him of his independence and joy.

Despite strong painkillers and opioids, relief was fleeting, and his quality of life continued to decline. That all changed nearly three years ago, when Paul received a Spinal Cord Stimulator (SCS). This procedure transformed his life - providing around 75–80 per cent pain relief and allowing him to walk again, dramatically reducing his dependence on medication.

“It changed my life.” said Paul. “I no longer have electric pulses charging through my feet, I can sleep through the night, and I love life again. I can enjoy walking - something I thought I’d lost forever.”

Dr Black said: “Spinal Cord Stimulation offers a modern approach to managing chronic neuropathic pain by sending precise electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interrupting pain messages before they are processed by the brain.

"Traditional stimulation methods rely on lower-frequency signals that can create tingling sensations, or paraesthesia. In contrast, the high-frequency 10,000 Hz therapy provides strong pain relief without those sensations, giving patients a smoother and more comfortable experience.”

Clinical studies have shown that Spinal Cord Stimulation can produce significant and sustained pain reduction in people with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy, including those who have not responded to other treatments. Patients frequently report improved sleep, mobility, and independence, alongside a reduction in the use of pain medication.

Dr Black explains: “For countless people in Leeds, this treatment could mark a turning point.

"Patients who have long been limited by persistent pain are beginning to move more freely, rest properly, and take back parts of their lives they thought were gone for good. For individuals who have exhausted traditional medications with little benefit, it offers a transformative new option.”

This innovative treatment is available at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals for eligible patients with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy. The procedure involves implanting a small device that delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord.

Before permanent implantation, patients typically undergo a short trial period to determine whether the therapy provides meaningful pain relief. If successful, a permanent system can then be fitted and adjusted for ongoing benefit.

Eligibility is assessed by a specialist multidisciplinary team, usually based within an NHS pain management service. Patients who believe they might benefit should discuss the option with their GP or diabetes consultant, who can refer them for assessment at a pain clinic.

For people living with Painful Diabetic Neuropathy, Spinal Cord Stimulation offers more than pain relief - it provides a chance to restore independence, dignity, and daily function.

Dr Black notes: “People who once struggled to leave their homes or depended heavily on strong pain medication are now reclaiming their independence.

"Many describe finally sleeping properly after years of disruption, getting back to walking or regular exercise, and reconnecting with work, hobbies, and social life.”

While Spinal Cord Stimulation represents a significant innovation, Dr Black stresses that effective diabetes care must also take a holistic approach - addressing both prevention and complication management.

Alongside access to advanced therapies, people with diabetes benefit from education, emotional and psychological support, lifestyle guidance, and equitable access to care.

As the number of people living with diabetes continues to rise across Leeds, NHS clinicians emphasise the need for early intervention. Painful Diabetic Neuropathy is not an inevitable consequence of diabetes, and with treatments like Spinal Cord Stimulation.

For more information about The Pain Clinic at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, visit https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/services/pain-management/