Peripheral neuropathy, a condition linked to nerve damage, affects more people than many realise, often progressing quietly before symptoms become disruptive. In South Africa, where conditions such as diabetes remain prevalent, the impact is even more pronounced - yet awareness around early warning signs remains limited.
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Healthcare professionals point to subtle but telling symptoms: tingling, numbness and burning sensations in the feet, particularly at night. While easy to dismiss, these sensations may be early indicators of nerve dysfunction.
“Neuropathy often develops quietly, but it can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life if left unmanaged,” says Dr Joshi, a highly qualified diabetes practitioner with more than two decades of experience. Based at a Diabetes Care Centre in Brooklyn, Pretoria, she has treated over 1,000 diabetic patients and holds advanced qualifications, including a Master’s in Pharmacokinetics from the University of Pretoria and a Master’s in Diabetes from the University of Cardiff. Her career has also included tutoring postgraduate diabetes students and contributing to clinical research and medical education.
“In South Africa, we see neuropathy commonly in people living with diabetes, but also in those affected by ageing, nutritional deficiencies, injury and HIV,” she adds.
Despite its prevalence, many people delay seeking medical advice, often brushing off early symptoms as temporary discomfort. But according to Dr Joshi, these warning signs should not be ignored.
“Those early signals-tingling, numbness, burning-are the body’s way of telling you something is wrong. The sooner you act, the better your chances of managing the condition effectively.”
As conversations around nerve health grow, more accessible support options are entering the market. One such option is WelTek-Nuro, an over-the-counter supplement formulated to support nerve function and help manage symptoms associated with neuropathy.
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Containing ingredients such as methylcobalamin (a form of vitamin B12) and alpha lipoic acid—both studied for their role in nerve health—the formulation reflects what is often used in clinical practice.
“This kind of combination support is aligned with what we recommend in managing complex nerve-related conditions,” Dr Joshi explains. “It’s not a cure, but it is a practical and supportive addition to a broader treatment plan.”
WelTek-Nuro is available at pharmacies, offering an accessible option for those looking to take a more proactive approach to their nerve health. Importantly, Dr Joshi emphasises that it should be used alongside proper medical care and management of underlying conditions.
Her advice is simple but urgent: “Don’t ignore the signs. If you’re experiencing symptoms, take action early-because small, consistent steps can make a meaningful difference over time.”
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