If you are one of the millions of people who suffer from neuropathy, you know how debilitating it can be. Neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage, which can lead to pain, tingling, and numbness in the hands and feet. There are four main types of diabetic neuropathy:
- Peripheral neuropathy: This is the most common type of diabetic neuropathy. It affects the nerves in the feet and legs.
- Autonomic neuropathy: This neuropathy affects the nerves that control the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic functions like blood pressure and heart rate.
- Focal neuropathy: This type of neuropathy affects a specific nerve or group of nerves. It can cause pain in the hands, feet, legs, or buttocks.
- Diabetic amyotrophy: This type of neuropathy affects the nerves that control the muscles. It can cause weakness and wasting (atrophy) of the muscles.
While there is no cure for neuropathy, many treatments can help ease the symptoms. Medication is the primary treatment for neuropathy symptoms, but there are also several natural therapies you can try, such as:
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice that involves inserting thin needles into the skin at specific points on the body. This helps to relieve pain by stimulating the nervous system.
2. Warm baths or showers
Warm baths or showers can help to relax the muscles and relieve pain. This is because the heat helps to increase blood flow to the affected area. However, neuropathy can impact your ability to feel pain, so it is important to be careful not to unconsciously burn yourself.
3. Cayenne pepper
Cayenne pepper contains a substance called capsaicin, which effectively relieves pain. You can find cayenne pepper in powder form at your local health food store, or you can purchase special topical creams that contain capsaicin and are specifically meant for pain relief. This capsaicin can be applied directly to the skin. It is also possible to take capsaicin in capsule form.
4. Exercise
Exercise is important for overall health, but it can also help relieve neuropathy symptoms. This is because exercise helps to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. Try to perform moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week for best results.
5. Lavender essential oils
Lavender essential oil has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation. You can find lavender oil at your local health food store. The oil can then be applied directly to the skin, added to a warm bath, or inhaled through a diffuser.
6. B vitamins
B vitamins are vital to nerve health. In fact, neuropathy is often caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency, so it is particularly important that patients with neuropathy are consuming enough B vitamins, either from food sources or supplements. Foods high in B vitamins include poultry, eggs, and leafy green vegetables.
