Home Remedies for Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. Feet and legs are the areas most affected. Nerve damage in the feet can lead to tingling, burning, numbness and pain, and can develop further complications such as foot ulcers, loss of reflexes and sometimes amputation. There are several ways to get relief of symptoms of neuropathy, in addition to medication. These include lifestyle changes, alternative therapies and herbal remedies. 

The Facts

Most patients who have neuropathy is polyneuropathy, which is an expression of injuries involving many nerves simultaneously. Diabetic neuropathy is the most common form of neuropathy. It is a progressive complication of diabetes, especially those who have difficulty controlling their blood sugar, as well as people who have hypertension, are overweight, or over 40 years old.

Meaning

Nearly 60 percent of diabetics have some form of neuropathy due to diabetes, according to the fund for peripheral neuropathy. If you have diabetic neuropathy in the course of several years, your symptoms may progress from numbness to weakness. Reflexes may ultimately be lost, along with the ability to feel changes in temperature or pain.

Considerations

Early symptoms of diabetic neuropathy can be improved when blood sugar is controlled. As neuropathy progresses, pain becomes more important. Treatment with heat or cold can not provide relief, because you may have lost the ability to feel temperature changes.

Changes in lifestyle

The goal of treatment of diabetic neuropathy is pain relief and prevent further tissue damage. Blood sugar should be brought under control with diet and medication. Be sure to get regular exercise and work to stay at the desired weight. Exercise is especially important because regular exercise will contribute to blood sugar under control and this can reduce neuropathic pain. Be sure to check your feet daily for wounds or injuries. If you smoke, it is important that you take steps to stop because smoking can affect circulation and increase the risk of a possible amputation.

Alternative therapies

Alternative therapies are drug free treatment that may offer some relief for neuropathic pain. Massage, acupuncture and relaxation techniques are some examples of alternative therapies.

Supplements

Alpha Lipoic Acid is an anti-oxidant that has been shown to reduce pain in many people suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Another supplement which may reduce pain and regenerating nerve fiber clusters is Acetyl-L-carnitine.