Ideas For Coping With Neuropathic Problems

Today's post is the third of three articles this week, from footpaincenter.com (see link below) the blog of Dr. Marc Spitz, who has been featured on this blog before and has extensive experience of neuropathic foot problems. He has his own Foot Pain Center in California and although advertising is strongly discouraged on this blog (in the interests of objectivity), there is no arguing with Dr Spitz's information which can be very helpful for many neuropathy sufferers. If you wish to follow up on his site or any of the products he mentions, please copy and paste the link below.

How to Cope With Neuropathy Foot Pain and Numbness

Posted on May 9, 2012 by admin

Living with peripheral neuropathy can be quite challenging. Neuropathy is defined as damage to the nerves away from the brain and spinal cord. It primarily affects the feet-causing pain, burning, numbness and tingling sensations in the feet and toes.
The following suggestions can help in the management of peripheral neuropathy:

• Keep your feet healthy-this is especially important if you have diabetes. Check your feet daily for signs of blisters, cuts or calluses. Tight shoes and socks can worsen pain and tingling and may lead to sores that won’t heal. Wear soft, loose acrylic socks and padded shoes. You can use a semicircular hoop, which is available in medical supply stores, to keep bedcovers off hot or sensitive feet. Problems such as ingrown toenails, plantar warts and fungal infections should be treated by a podiatrist.
• Exercise regularly- exercise is beneficial to the circulation in the legs and feet. If your medical condition limits your activities, walking or the use of a stationary bike is recommended.
• Use topical lotions, creams and patches to “fool the nerve endings.” If the pain and the odd sensations are uncomfortable, you might try topicals to divert the pain. Topical, over-the-counter preparations, often contain menthol and eucalyptus (or Capsaicin ed.) which can be soothing to the nerve endings. Some products in this category include Nerve Health Relief Cream, Biofreeze, Sombra and Bengay.
• Massage can be helpful-Massage can increase local circulation in the feet. Massage has a calming effect as well. You can purchase a home foot massager such as MediRub Foot Massager a Homedics unit

With neuropathy-attitude is everything!
Living with a chronic condition such as peripheral neuropathy can be challenging and at times disheartening.

• Acknowledge the condition but don’t give in! Decide which tasks you need to do on a given day, such as paying bills or shopping for groceries, and which can wait
• Divert the discomfort by staying active - get involved in a hobby or visit a friend, go to a movie or take a short walk if possible.
• It’s ok to ask for help-take advantage of the number of resources that are available. It isn’t a sign of weakness to ask for or accept help when you need it. In addition to support from family and friends, consider joining a support group. They can be good places to hear about coping techniques or treatments that have worked for others. You’ll also meet people who understand what you’re going through. To find a support group in your community, check with the Neuropathy Association (neuropathy.org). The Neuropathy Association is a prime resource for those who suffer from peripheral neuropathy. There are many local support groups across the country under the auspices of this organization.
• Try to not to get overwhelmed-Everyday problems can be exacerbated the additional stress of dealing with neuropathy. If something especially stressful is coming up in your life, such as a move or a new job, knowing what you have to do ahead of time can help you cope
• Seek the help of a professional- Talk to a counselor or therapist. Anxiety, depression and sleep difficulties are possible complications of peripheral neuropathy. If you experience any of these, you may find it helpful to talk to a counselor or therapist in addition to your primary care doctor.

http://www.footpaincenter.com/blog/?m=201205