Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and Its Impact on Your Overall Health

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

How Concierge Internal Medicine Associates Helps Patients Navigate Care in Palm Beach County

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common and serious complications of diabetes. It occurs when chronically elevated blood sugar damages the nerves, particularly those in the feet and legs. While many people initially notice symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in their feet, the condition can have far-reaching effects on overall health and quality of life if not properly managed. Early diagnosis and coordinated medical care are critical to slowing progression and preventing long-term complications.

What Is Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage of the peripheral nerves—the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. In individuals with diabetes, prolonged exposure to high glucose levels can injure these nerves and disrupt their ability to transmit signals effectively.

Common symptoms include:

Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature in the feet
Burning, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensations
Sharp or stabbing pain
Increased sensitivity to touch
Muscle weakness or difficulty with balance
Because nerve damage often begins in the longest nerves of the body, symptoms typically start in the toes and feet and gradually progress upward.

How Diabetic Neuropathy Affects Overall Health

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is more than just nerve pain—it can significantly impact multiple aspects of a person’s health and mobility.

Increased Risk of Foot Injuries and Ulcers

When sensation is reduced in the feet, small cuts, blisters, or pressure points may go unnoticed. Without proper treatment, these minor injuries can develop into serious infections or ulcers.

Balance and Fall Risk

Loss of sensation in the feet can impair balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls, especially in older adults.

Circulation and Healing Complications

Diabetes can also impair circulation, which slows healing and increases the risk of infection. Combined with neuropathy, this creates a dangerous cycle that may lead to chronic wounds or even amputation if left untreated.

Impact on Daily Function and Quality of Life

Persistent pain, numbness, and mobility limitations can affect sleep, exercise tolerance, and overall independence.

Why Early Medical Evaluation Matters

Early identification of neuropathy allows physicians to intervene before nerve damage becomes severe. Evaluation typically includes:

  • Comprehensive metabolic and diabetes management review
  • Neurologic and vascular examination of the lower extremities
  • Assessment of balance and gait
  • Foot health screening to identify pressure points or skin breakdown
  • Coordination with specialists when needed
  • Managing diabetic neuropathy requires more than simply addressing symptoms. It involves optimizing blood sugar control, protecting nerve health, improving circulation, and preventing complications.

A Concierge Approach to Managing Diabetic Neuropathy

At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, patients receive a personalized, comprehensive approach to managing diabetes and its complications. Rather than navigating the healthcare system alone, patients benefit from a physician who coordinates care across multiple specialties within the Palm Beach County medical community.

Services may include:

  • Personalized diabetes management and metabolic optimization
  • Preventive foot care monitoring and early wound prevention strategies
  • Coordination with pain management physician, podiatry, neurology, endocrinology, and vascular specialists
  • Medication management to address neuropathic pain and nerve health
  • Lifestyle and nutrition guidance to help stabilize blood sugar levels

Coordinated Care Throughout Palm Beach County

Patients living in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, and surrounding communities often see multiple specialists when managing chronic conditions like diabetes. Concierge Internal Medicine Associates serves as the central point of communication between providers, ensuring that treatment plans are coordinated, efficient, and focused on long-term health outcomes.

By bridging primary care with specialty care, patients gain access to a network of trusted physicians, diagnostic resources, and therapeutic services throughout Palm Beach County.

Protecting Your Nerve Health and Long-Term Wellness

While Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy can be a serious diagnosis, early intervention and coordinated medical care can dramatically reduce complications and improve quality of life. With the right medical guidance, many patients can slow progression, control symptoms, and maintain an active lifestyle.

Working closely with Concierge Internal Medicine Associates allows patients to receive individualized attention, expert guidance, and seamless coordination within the Palm Beach County healthcare community—ensuring that every aspect of their health is carefully monitored and managed.

Sam C

I have seen Dr. D only twice, but as a senior, have seen lots of doctors. I believe Dr. D is one of the best. She is smart, very thorough, professional and very friendly!

Kathy N.

Second time seeing Dr. D. Left another practice and love this one so much. Dr. D listens, asks good questions and genuinely cares.

Carol H.

Both my husband and I absolutely love Dr Deshommes. She is so thorough and always has time for to listen to what you are saying.

Susan B. Poncy, M.D.

Concierge OB/GYN Physician
Personalized Concierge Women’s Health / Gynecology in Jupiter, Florida

Experience You Can Feel. Care You Can Trust.

There is something deeply reassuring about sitting across from a physician who has truly seen it all — who listens without rushing, understands the nuance behind your symptoms, and treats you like a whole person, not a checklist.

For almost 30 years, Dr. Susan B.  Poncy has cared for women throughout Palm Beach County with a blend of grace, clinical depth, and steady confidence. Her presence is calm. Her style is thoughtful. Her standard is excellence.
Women in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s often come to her not just for answers — but for clarity.

When Your Body Changes — And You Want Real Answers

At some point, things begin to shift.
Your sleep feels different.
Your patience is shorter.
Your cycle changes — or disappears.
Your body no longer responds the way it used to.
You may have been told your labs are “normal.” But you don’t quite feel like yourself.

Dr. Poncy understands that perimenopause and menopause are not one-size-fits-all experiences. Under her concierge care, conversations are unhurried and comprehensive. She takes time to connect the dots between hormones, mood, metabolism, bone health, intimacy, and long-term wellness.

If bio-identical hormone therapy is appropriate, it is approached carefully and individually — not as a trend, but as part of a larger health strategy designed specifically for you.

Elevated, Relationship-Based Gynecologic Care

  • Dr. Poncy provides full-spectrum gynecologic care, including:
  • Irregular or heavy bleeding
  • Fibroids and pelvic discomfort
  • Minimally invasive and robotic surgical options
  • Preventive screenings and longevity planning
  • Sexual wellness and intimacy concerns
  • Midlife metabolic and hormonal changes

What makes Dr. Poncy’s style different is not just her credentials — though they are extensive. Board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, trained at Duke University and the University of Miami, with residency at UT Southwestern–Parkland, Dr. Poncy has also served as Medical Director of the Women’s Health Program at Jupiter Medical Center.

What truly sets her apart is how she practices medicine.

She listens first.
She explains clearly.
She guides confidently.

A Trusted Network Throughout Palm Beach County

With nearly three decades of caring for women in Jupiter and surrounding communities, Dr. Poncy has cultivated an exceptional professional network across Palm Beach County.

When additional imaging, specialty consultation, surgical planning, or collaborative care is needed, members benefit from seamless coordination with respected physicians, hospital systems, and diagnostic centers.
This level of connection matters — especially when your health feels complex or when you simply want the reassurance that your physician knows exactly who to call.

Discretion. Elegance. Continuity.

Many women who choose Dr. Poncy are balancing careers, families, aging parents, travel, and leadership roles. They value privacy. They value efficiency. They value thoughtful care.

Our Women’s Health Concierge Model Members Will Receive:

  • Appointments are unrushed.
  • Questions are welcomed.
  • Follow-up is personal.
  • Care plans are tailored.
  • It is medicine delivered with quiet elegance — grounded in experience and strengthened by long-standing relationships.

Women’s Health That Evolves Around You

Many of Dr. Poncy’s Palm Beach County patients first met her during pregnancy and now return as they navigate midlife transitions. Others come seeking a fresh start with a physician who understands both modern science and the wisdom that only decades in practice can bring.

If you are looking for a gynecologist and a primary care women’s health physician who combines clinical mastery with warmth, discretion, and an extensive medical network throughout Palm Beach County, Dr. Susan B. Poncy offers not just expertise — but a partnership. Ask Dr. Poncy about peptide therapy!

Because women deserve to feel heard, understood, and well guided at every stage of life.

Pre-diabetes: Why Early, Personalized Care Matters—Especially for Those at Higher Risk

Dr. Deshommes primary care concierge doctor

Diabetes – Lifestyle and Genetics

Pre-diabetes affects millions of adults and often develops quietly, without noticeable symptoms. For many, it is discovered incidentally during routine lab work—yet it represents a critical warning sign. Without timely intervention, prediabetes frequently progresses to type 2 diabetes, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, nerve damage, cognitive decline, and loss of independence later in life.

For active adults, executives with demanding schedules, and older adults focused on longevity, early and proactive management of prediabetes is essential—and highly effective when guided by the right physician.

What Is Prediabetes?

Prediabetes occurs when blood glucose levels are elevated but not yet in the diabetic range. Common indicators include:

  • Elevated fasting glucose
  • Increased hemoglobin A1C
  • Insulin resistance
  • Family history of diabetes
  • Abdominal weight gain
  • Fatigue, brain fog, or sugar cravings

Many patients—especially those who remain active—are surprised by this diagnosis. Genetics play a powerful role, and even individuals who exercise regularly and eat well may be at risk due to inherited metabolic tendencies.

Genetics, Aging, and Lifestyle: Why a One-Size-Fits-All Approach Fails

Patients with a genetic predisposition to diabetes often require more than generic advice. This is particularly true for:

  • Active adults and retirees in Jupiter and Tequesta who want to preserve mobility and independence
  • Executives and professionals in Palm Beach Gardens balancing stress, travel, and long workdays
  • Geriatric patients in Juno Beach aiming to prevent complications that threaten quality of life
  • Without individualized medical oversight, many patients are told to “watch and wait”—allowing disease progression rather than prevention.

The Role of Preventive Concierge Medicine in Prediabetes

Preventive medicine focuses on identifying risk early and intervening strategically—before irreversible damage occurs. A concierge primary care physician is uniquely positioned to do this.

By working closely with a physician, patients benefit from:

  • Advanced metabolic and cardiovascular testing
  • Early identification of insulin resistance trends
  • Personalized nutrition strategies based on genetics and lifestyle
  • Safe, medically guided weight optimization
  • Ongoing monitoring and proactive adjustments


This level of care is particularly valuable for older adults managing multiple health considerations and high-performing professionals who need efficient, coordinated medical guidance.

A Personalized Care Plan—Not Just Lab Results

Effective prediabetes management requires a comprehensive, individualized strategy:

  • Precision Testing
    Detailed metabolic, inflammatory, and cardiovascular markers help identify early dysfunction—often years before diabetes develops.Nutrition Tailored to the Individual
    Dietary guidance must align with insulin response, hormonal balance, activity level, and cultural preferences—not trends or fads.
  • Targeted Movement
    Exercise plans should improve insulin sensitivity while supporting joint health, muscle mass, and cardiovascular endurance—especially important for aging adults.
  • Weight & Body Composition Optimization
    Even modest reductions in visceral fat can significantly improve blood sugar control when done safely and under medical supervision.
  • Ongoing Physician Partnership
    Prediabetes is dynamic. Regular follow-up allows the care plan to evolve with age, stress levels, travel schedules, and changing health goals.

Concierge Preventive Care With Dr. Beatrice Deshommes, M.D., FACP

As a board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. Beatrice Deshommes, M.D., FACP provides concierge primary care with a strong focus on prevention, metabolic health, and long-term wellness. Her approach is ideal for patients who are genetically predisposed to diabetes and want to take control of their health before chronic disease develops.

Dr. Deshommes partners closely with her patients to:

  • Identify early metabolic risk factors
  • Develop realistic, sustainable lifestyle strategies
  • Prevent progression to type 2 diabetes
  • Support cardiovascular, cognitive, and functional health as patients age
  • Her concierge model allows for longer visits, deeper analysis, and proactive care—particularly beneficial for geriatric patients, active retirees, and busy executives who value continuity and personalized attention.

Serving Northern Palm Beach County’s Active & Aging Population

Dr. Deshommes proudly provides concierge primary care for residents of:

Jupiter
Palm Beach Gardens
Tequesta
Juno Beach
Whether you live in Admirals Cove, Jonathan’s Landing or PGA National, these communities are home to South Florida individuals who prioritize longevity, independence, mental clarity, and an active lifestyle—well into later decades of life.

Prediabetes Is an Opportunity for Prevention

Prediabetes is not a failure—it is an early warning and an opportunity. With the guidance of a preventive, concierge internist, patients can often reverse course, preserve vitality, and avoid the complications that diminish quality of life.

For those seeking a trusted, personalized medical partner in Northern Palm Beach County, concierge preventive care offers a smarter, more proactive path forward.

Senior Care Resources

Beatrice Deshommes, M.D.

Concierge Primary Care Physician | Board-Certified in Internal Medicine

Dr. Beatrice Deshommes, a board-certified internist with more than two decades of clinical experience, is known for her thoughtful, relationship-centered approach to primary care. She provides a high level of attention, medical insight, and continuity that supports patients through both preventive health needs and complex medical conditions.

Dr. Deshommes earned her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and completed her Internal Medicine residency through the University of Rochester Primary Care Program, later serving as Chief Resident at Rochester General Hospital. Her experience spans hospital medicine, outpatient primary care, and clinical leadership roles focused on improving patient outcomes.

Before joining Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, she served as a trusted primary care physician and development mentor with ChenMed, where she became recognized for her compassionate, thorough care—especially for patients managing chronic or age-related conditions.

As a Fellow of the American College of Physicians (FACP) and active member of the Florida Medical Association and T. Leroy Jefferson Medical Society, Dr. Deshommes remains engaged with ongoing medical advances and evidence-based practice.

Preventative Medical Care with Experience

Dr. Deshommes is currently practicing in a hybrid role, dividing her time between Jupiter Internal Medicine Associates and Concierge Internal Medicine Associates as she builds her concierge membership panel. Once her membership reaches capacity, she will transition fully into the concierge model—ensuring continuity and personalized access for all enrolled members.

Patients choose Dr. Deshommes for her clear communication, comprehensive evaluations, and dedication to long-term wellness. She welcomes individuals seeking a concierge-level primary care experience in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Juno Beach, and the surrounding communities.

Health Risk Assessment

At Concierge Internal Medicine Associates, we believe that proactive care leads to better outcomes. One of the most effective tools we use to help patients understand and manage their health is the Health Risk Assessment (HRA). This short but powerful evaluation is a cornerstone of preventive care—especially for Medicare patients—and can help uncover health risks before they become more serious problems.

What is a Health Risk Assessment?

A Health Risk Assessment is a structured questionnaire designed to evaluate your current health status, personal and family medical history, lifestyle habits, and potential health risks. This assessment is typically offered as part of your Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, and it provides a valuable snapshot that helps guide your care plan going forward.

Why It Matters

Many chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease can develop silently. The HRA helps our team identify areas of concern early so that we can work together to keep you healthy and out of the hospital. It also helps us tailor your care to your unique needs, whether that means scheduling preventive screenings, adjusting medications, or supporting lifestyle changes.

The Benefits of Completing an HRA

  • Early Identification of Health Risks: Find out what may be impacting your health—before symptoms begin.
  • Customized Care Planning: We use your responses to create a care plan that’s designed specifically for you.
  • Improved Communication: An HRA opens the door to better conversations with your doctor and clinical team.
  • Better Long-Term Outcomes: Patients who participate in regular assessments and follow-up care tend to experience fewer hospitalizations and enjoy better overall health.
  • Serving Patients Across the Jupiter Area
  • Whether you live in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, Tequesta, or Juno Beach, Dr. Daniel Boss is here to help you stay ahead of health concerns and enjoy peace of mind. Our office is conveniently located just north of Donald Ross Road, making it easy to access high-quality, personalized medical care close to home.

Schedule Your Health Risk Assessment Today

If you haven’t yet completed your Health Risk Assessment, or if it’s time for your Annual Wellness Visit, we invite you to follow up with our team. These visits are fully covered for Medicare patients and play a key role in maintaining long-term wellness.

Call us today and take the first step toward better health with Dr. Daniel Boss.

Choosing the Right Doctor: Why It’s About More Than Just Experience

Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Medical Care

Selecting the right physician is a critical decision that impacts your overall health, quality of life, and long-term wellness. While board certifications and years of clinical experience are important, today’s healthcare environment demands more than just credentials. Patients need a doctor who understands how to coordinate care, communicate effectively, and advocate on their behalf. The ability to connect patients to timely services, reduce unnecessary hospital visits, and provide guidance through a complex medical system is what truly defines exceptional care.

Care Coordination and Sub-Specialist Access Matters

One of the key roles of an effective primary care physician is to ensure patients have access to the care they need—when they need it. This includes having established relationships with top sub-specialists in fields such as cardiology, endocrinology, pulmonology, and orthopedics. A doctor who can make a phone call and get you seen promptly by a trusted colleague is invaluable. This kind of coordinated care reduces wait times, avoids fragmented treatment, and improves outcomes—especially for patients with complex or chronic medical needs.

Dr. Daniel Boss: A Hands-On Healthcare Innovator

Dr. Daniel Boss has been a trusted physician in Jupiter and Palm Beach Gardens for more than 23 years. Known as a forward-thinking healthcare innovator, he takes a highly personal and hands-on approach to medicine. His patients appreciate his accessibility, responsiveness, and commitment to staying actively involved in every aspect of their care. Whether you need help transitioning from the hospital to home, arranging a referral, or managing multiple medications, Dr. Boss is there to help guide the process with clarity and compassion.

Navigating Jupiter Healthcare and Insurance Maze

Understanding the ins and outs of today’s health insurance landscape can be overwhelming. A great doctor not only provides care but also helps patients make the most of their coverage. Dr. Boss and his team work closely with patients to coordinate services within the practice, minimize out-of-pocket costs, and ensure appropriate authorizations and referrals are in place. This level of support allows patients to receive the care they need without unnecessary financial stress or bureaucratic delays.

A Dependable Advocate for Aging in Place

What truly sets Dr. Boss apart is his dependability and dedication to helping patients stay healthy, independent, and out of the hospital. By staying involved in every stage of a patient’s health journey—whether in the office, at Jupiter Medical Center, or coordinating with home care services—he helps prevent avoidable emergencies and promotes successful aging in place. For residents of Jupiter, Tequesta, Palm Beach Gardens, Juno Beach, and Hobe Sound, Dr. Boss provides more than just medical care—he offers a long-term partnership built on trust, accessibility, and results.

The Healing Power of Gratitude in Everyday Wellness

Gratitude has been scientifically shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even support cardiovascular health. Taking just a few moments each day to acknowledge what you're thankful for—whether it's your morning walk, a kind gesture, or a beautiful view—can shift your mindset into a more restorative, optimistic state.

In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the simple, healing power of a grateful heart and a moment of stillness. At the concierge practice of Dr. Daniel Boss, MD, patients throughout Hobe Sound, Tequesta, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Juno Beach are encouraged to prioritize not just physical health, but also mental and emotional well-being. One of the most accessible ways to support whole-person wellness is by developing a daily practice of gratitude, appreciation of natural beauty, and intentional breathwork—simple tools that can unlock renewed energy, inner clarity, and a greater sense of balance.

How Gratitude Supports Physical and Mental Health

Gratitude has been scientifically shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, and even support cardiovascular health. Taking just a few moments each day to acknowledge what you’re thankful for—whether it’s your morning walk, a kind gesture, or a beautiful view—can shift your mindset into a more restorative, optimistic state. Dr. Boss encourages his patients to use gratitude as a daily tool to reduce emotional strain and improve overall well-being, especially when managing chronic conditions or navigating life’s demands.

Find Peace and Gratitude in South Florida’s Natural Beauty

Living in coastal South Florida offers the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with nature and practicing mindfulness. One of Dr. Boss’s favorite recommendations for patients is to start the day with a sunrise stroll at Juno Beach Pier, where the peaceful rhythm of the waves sets the tone for a calm, grateful mindset. Whether you’re walking barefoot along the shoreline or relaxing under the palms, taking a few minutes outdoors in places like Jupiter, Tequesta, or Hobe Sound can provide a grounding moment to reflect, recharge, and appreciate the beauty all around you.

Unlock Energy and Calm with Just Three Deep Breaths

Sometimes, all it takes to reset your mind and body is three slow, intentional breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, pause, and exhale gently through your mouth. Repeating this just two more times can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and generate a quiet surge of fresh energy. Dr. Boss recommends this quick technique to his patients as a go-to strategy for staying centered—whether at work, at home, or on the go. This breath-based reset can be especially beneficial for those experiencing fatigue, overwhelm, or chronic stress.

Dr. Daniel Boss, MD: Trusted Concierge Care for the Treasure Coast and Northern Palm Beach County

Dr. Daniel Boss offers concierge primary care with a focus on personalized, preventive medicine for individuals and families across Hobe Sound, Tequesta, Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, and Juno Beach. His approach emphasizes the connection between mental, emotional, and physical health—encouraging practices like gratitude, nature engagement, and breathwork to support overall vitality. With a calm and compassionate presence, Dr. Boss provides trusted care patients can count on for every stage of life