Kelly July 3, 2018
As you know, neuropathy is a complex condition with many symptoms and causes. As a result, there are a variety of neuropathy treatments ranging from conventional to alternative methods. In the guide below, you will learn about each therapy, it's benefits as well as the potential side effects. Use the Quick Navigation below to skip to sections.
Quick Navigation
An Overview of Neuropathy
Types of Neuropathy
What Causes Neuropathy?
Systemic diseases
Trauma
Pressure on the Nerves
Infections
Autoimmune Disorders
Part I: Conventional Neuropathy Treatments
1. Psychiatric Drugs
2. Anticonvulsants
3. Antidepressants
4. Topical Pain Medications
7. Lifestyle Changes
8. Avoid Excess Alcohol
9. Managing Diabetes
10. Diet
11. Healthy Eating
12. Foods Rich In Vitamin B12
13. Going Vegan
14. Consider Other Supplements
PART 2: Alternative Neuropathy Treatments
15. Acupuncture Treatment
16. TENS Therapy Treatment
17. Cryotherapy
18. Vitamins
19. Benfotiamine
20. Vitamin B-12 & B-6
21. Vitamin C
22. Vitamin E
23. Vitamin D
Nutrients
24. Acetyl L-Carnitine
25. Alpha Lipoic Acid
26. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
27. Circumin
28. Resveratrol
29. Magnesium
Herbs
30. Passionflower
31. American Skullcap
32. Oat Straw
33. Feverfew Extract
Home Remedies For Neuropathy
Supplements
Summary
An Overview of Neuropathy
Around 8% of people older than 55 suffer from neuropathy. Nerve pain is most often caused by a chronic medical condition, which is usually known as peripheral neuropathy.
Within the peripheral nervous system, the nerves are responsible for the transmission of messages between the central nervous system and the rest of the body.
The nervous system is made up of two essential elements.
The first is the central nervous system and the second one is the peripheral nervous system. The central nervous system, meanwhile, is essentially the brain and the spinal cord.
The nerves are responsible for the regulation of the various bodily functions. Those functions include the motor nerves, which regulate voluntary muscle movement; the autonomic nerves, which regulate involuntary activity of the organs; and the sensory nerves, which provide you with perception of stimuli.
When people develop neuropathy, they have a condition in which their nerves have become disrupted or damaged. As stated, around 8% of people over 55 suffer from this, which is around 2.4% of the rest of the population. This does not, however, include those people who suffer from neuropathy as a result of nerve trauma.
In addition to pain, other symptoms of this condition may include increased skin sensitivity, muscle soreness, and individual muscle paralysis. Affected areas of the body may hurt sharply, or they may become numb, feel cold, itch, or burn.
Two particularly common symptoms are a recurring sensation of pins and needles, and “foot drop,” a condition in which one or both feet cannot be raised properly. Because of symptoms like these, PN can give rise to serious mobility issues.
Types of Neuropathy
There are three types of peripheral nerves, each of which can be affected by neuropathy. They are:
The sensory nerves, that are responsible for carrying the messages from the eyes and other sensory organs, to the brain.
The motor nerves, which ensure you can consciously move the different muscles in your body.
The autonomic nerves, which are responsible for all of the body’s involuntary functions, which include organ functions.
It is also possible for just one nerve to be affected by neuropathy, a condition known as mononeuropathy. This includes:
Cervical neuropathy, which affects the neck
Femoral neuropathy, which affects the thigh
Peroneal neuropathy, which affects the knee
Radial neuropathy, which affects the arms
Ulnar neuropathy, which affects the elbows
Sometimes, people experience neuropathy in two different nerves, meaning they have multiple mononeuropathies. This is known as “mononeuritis multiplex neuropathy”. But in most cases, people suffer from neuropathy across many different peripheral nerves, which is called “polyneuropathy”.
The National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has stated that there are more than 100 different peripheral neuropathies.
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What Causes Neuropathy?
There are multiple potential contributing factors behind the development of this condition, but it most often arises as a complication of diabetes, usually in combination with one or more common nutritional deficiencies.
At its heart, neuropathic pain is caused by damage to the nervous system. Most commonly, this involves the peripheral nerves.
If one were to draw a comparison between the nervous system and a tree, the peripheral nerves would be the tree’s limbs, off of which the smaller branches grow.
In this comparison, the spinal cord would be the trunk of the tree. Damaged peripheral nerves send false or incomplete signals to the spinal cord, and from there to the brain, resulting in the triggering of some of the body’s warning systems and other reactions.
Diabetic neuropathy cannot be cured, but there are a variety of treatments used to try and control its symptoms, with some success in delaying the progression of the illness (or even in reversing some of the damage). These range from herbal remedies, to traditional western medicine, to the true cutting edge of medical science today.
Neuropathy may be congenital, meaning it is inherited at birth, or it can be acquired. The latter can happen at any point in time. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is the most common congenital condition that leads to inherited neuropathy. Around one in every 2,500 people in this country are affected by it.
In the case of acquired neuropathy, it is not always clear what causes the condition. This is then referred to as “idiopathic neuropathy”. However, in many cases, the cause is very clear. They include:
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Systemic diseases
A systemic disease is one whereby the entire body is affected. In the case of neuropathy, the underlying systemic disease is almost always diabetes. With diabetes, the high levels of blood glucose cause irreparable damage to the nerves. That said, there are also other systemic diseases that can lead to neuropathy, such as:
Kidney disorders. These cause toxic substances that damage the nerves to course through the body.
Exposure to heavy metals, poisons, and other toxins, including thallium, mercury, lead, and arsenic
Certain medications and drugs, including antibiotics, antivirals, anticonvulsants, and anticancer medication like chemotherapy
Liver diseases that lead to chemical imbalances
Hormonal disease, particularly hyperthyroidism. This disrupts the natural metabolic process, which can cause body parts and tissue to swell, putting too much pressure on the nerves.
Vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B12, vitamin E, and niacin. These all impact nerve health.
Alcoholism, because alcoholics often have nutritional deficiencies, particularly vitamin deficiencies.
Benign and malignant tumors that place too much pressure on the fibers of the nerves.
Chronic inflammation, particularly if it affects the nerves’ protective tissue. When this happens, it is more likely that they become compressed and the inflammation may also spread.
Blood vessel damage and blood diseases that can affect the tissue of the nerves by not supplying enough oxygen.
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Trauma
Physical trauma to the nerves can lead to neuropathy. If trauma stretches, compresses, crushes, or severs the nerves, it can cause permanent damage. In fact, the nerves can be completely detached from the spinal cord. The most common types of trauma that can cause neuropathy include sports injuries, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.
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Pressure on the Nerves
Different situations can put too much pressure on the tissue and fibers of the nerves. Poorly fitted casts after a broken bone, for instance, can cause this. If pressure on the nerves is prolonged, which often happens due to repetitive strain like carpal tunnel syndrome, can also cause neuropathy. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the wrists’ median nerve in particular. Other forms of repetitive stress can cause inflammation to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles, which in turn puts pressure on the nerves.
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Infections
Both viral and bacterial infections can cause neuropathy. Some directly attack the nerves, while others do so indirectly. Such infections include:
Shingles
HIV
Lyme disease
Epstein-Barr virus
Leprosy
Diphtheria
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Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders, whereby the body’s immune system treats healthy parts of the body as a foreign invader and starts attacking them, can also lead to nerve damage. The most common autoimmune disorders that do this include:
Rheumatoid arthritis
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Acute inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy, or Guillain-Barre syndrome
Sjogren’s syndrome
Lupus
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Part I: Conventional Neuropathy Treatments
Unfortunately, neuropathy is not curable. This means that treatment is based on finding ways to manage the symptoms and increase overall quality of life. Lifestyle measures are of particular importance, as these can ensure that the progression of neuropathy is slowed down. Key lifestyle measures include:
Controlling blood sugar, particularly for people who are diabetic
Cessation of smoking
Working out and having greater physical activity
Maintaining a healthy weight
Nerve pain medications are almost always prescribed for people with neuropathy, particularly once the condition starts to progress.
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1. Psychiatric Drugs
A range of psychiatric drugs developed for other purposes have been shown to help with pain management in patients with chronic nerve pain. The drugs in question are typically those which regulate or otherwise affect dopamine production, and their effects are limited to nerve pain, as opposed to other sources of pain.
Because this type of pain is so resistant to treatment, including over-the-counter medication, these drugs are receiving a lot of attention—but they aren’t without side effects of their own, particularly in the long-term.
2. Anticonvulsants
There have been numerous scientific studies that have shown that anticonvulsants can benefit people with neuropathy. Certain anticonvulsants, particularly gabapentin, also have very few adverse side effects. This is why physicians now consider it as a first choice for the treatment of neuropathy.
Another anticonvulsant that may be prescribed is phenytoin. However, as an antinociceptive agent, it is only supported by weak to modest evidence. Lamotrigine, meanwhile, has a better potential to control and modulate the pain associated with neuropathy. Two controlled trials have demonstrated this, but a third one did not measure any effect on neuropathy, whether positive or negative.
Other anticonvulsants that are being considered include tiagabine, pregabalin, topiramate, valproic acid, clonazepam, and phenobarbital. These have been found to have both antinociceptive and anti-hyperalgesic properties. However, they have only been tested on pain levels in animals with neuropathy at present. Further clinical trials are being conducted.
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3. Antidepressants
A study review completed in 2005 showed that people whose nerve tissues have been damaged, causing disabling pain, should consider antidepressants as a form of treatment. The review looked at a total of 50 different studies in which 19 different antidepressants were examined for their effects on neuropathic pain.
The conclusion was that tricyclic antidepressants in particular can significantly decrease pain levels. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants are nortriptyline, desipramine, clomipramine, imipramine, and amitriptyline.
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4. Topical Pain Medications
Both opioids and over-the-counter medication can be prescribed for neuropathy. Examples of topical medication include capsaicin cream (Lidoderm) and lidocaine patches (Lidopain). These medications, which are patches, lotions, gels, ointments, or creams to be applied directly to the source of the pain, can provide rapid relief of inflammation and nerve pain. The skin absorbs the active ingredients in the topical medication, providing localized relief only. Topical medications are further divided into local anesthetics and analgesics.
5. Local Anesthetics
Local anesthetics have been used quite successfully in the treatment of localized pain. These drugs numb the part of the body on which they are applied, thereby blocking the pain signals. Examples of local anesthetics are:
EMLA-A, which is a prescription drug. It is quite slow-acting, taking around an hour to take effect. The numbing lasts for several hours.
Lidoderm, which is a lidocaine patch that is only available on prescription. It is placed directly on the source of the pain and provides quite rapid relief.
Over-the-counter products, which are recommended for mild pain, as they do not provide a lot of relief.
6. Analgesics
Analgesics are generally over the counter substances. To use them, the cream or gel is rubbed into the skin. Usually, an analgesic will contain capsaicin, which is derived from the seeds of the chili pepper. Brand names include Zostrix, Dolorac, and Capzasin-P.
It is believed that capsaicin makes it harder for the nerve cells to send the brain pain messages. However, the drugs are not very strong and are therefore used only on minor pain that is found close to the surface of the skin.
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7. Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes, as mentioned earlier, are vital in the treatment of neuropathy. Besides what has already been mentioned, people may want to manage their stress levels and engage in proper foot care, protecting the feet as well as the skin.
Furthermore, they can consider warm water treatment and chiropractic massages. Increasing levels of hydration has also been found to be of benefit, but the water should be clean and filtered. Avoiding both alcohol and smoking is equally important.
With diabetes pinpointed as a major factor in the onset and advancement of peripheral neuropathy, it follows that making healthy diet and lifestyle choices will minimize the damaging effects of the condition.
Regular exercise may reduce pain or cramps, improve muscle strength, help control blood sugar levels, and prevent muscle loss. In particular, activities such as walking or swimming can improve neuropathy symptoms.
Research is ongoing into whether or not the underlying damage, and thereby the symptoms, can be reversed by such changes, but there is evidence suggesting that its progress can be halted.
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8. Avoid Excess Alcohol
Alcohol consumed to excess can lead to various health conditions getting worse, including neuropathy. It can make neuropathy symptoms worse, particularly pain and numbness. Poor nutrition and diabetes are two examples of this.
Because nerve damage is permanent, it is important to limit alcohol intake. Moderate drinking is fine, which means no more than one drink daily for women and men over 65, or two daily for men younger than 65.
Alcohol makes it difficult to properly control the level of blood sugar. Those who are alcoholics tend to also have poor nutritional profiles, meaning they become deficient in various nerve-supporting vitamins, including B complex vitamins.
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9. Managing Diabetes
Diabetes is one of the main causes of neuropathy. Those who have been diagnosed with the disease must focus strongly on managing their glucose levels. On top of that, they must look after their feet properly and treat any wounds they sustain.
This is because people with neuropathy will often not feel any pain in the affected areas. It is also believed that nerves may regenerate to some degree when diabetes is properly controlled. If nothing else, it prevents further damage.
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10. Diet
It will come as no surprise that proper nutrition can help to prevent neuropathy and manage the condition in those who already have it.
The most well-advised practices, outside of nutritional supplementation, are those which are widely advocated for the management of diabetes. Sugar cravings can be controlled by reducing the sugar in one’s diet a little at a time.
Many diabetic individuals occasionally enjoy a sweet dessert; this isn’t a self-destruct button, but avoiding complex carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice) is highly advised, as is replacing some of the “sweet” in a dessert with unsaturated fats instead.
Cravings can be further controlled by restricting sweet foods to meals with a variety of flavors, rather than making them stand-alone snacks.
Other widely-supported advice includes eating more seafood and shellfish, more vegetables, and high-quality proteins: nuts, beans and legumes, cheese, and unsweetened yogurt are a few good examples.
A neuropathy diet focuses on a number of particular elements, such as:
11. Healthy Eating
It is common knowledge that people must consume a healthy diet. This will help to prevent various types of conditions, not just neuropathy. Healthy eating is about portion control and proper intake of carbohydrates.
This will keep blood sugar level under control, thereby preventing nerve damage from occurring or limiting its progress. A healthy diet also contains a variety of different foods to make it nutritious and balance. Those with neuropathy should consider visiting a dietitian to develop a meal plan that is right for them.
Those with neuropathy should consider switching to a diet that contains a lot of fresh produce, whole grains, nuts, and fish. This can also help them to maintain a proper and healthy BMI. Being overweight or obese often worsens the symptoms of neuropathy.
Additionally, by consuming a healthy, balanced diet, gastrointestinal problems such as incontinence, constipation, and diarrhea may also be avoided. Sometimes, these problems are caused by neuropathy to the nerves that control the contractions of the intestinal muscles. Of course, consuming a healthy diet also ensures that people do not become nutritionally deficient in any way.
Healthy meals should consist of lean protein, fruits and vegetables, foods rich in B vitamins, hot peppers, and plenty of nuts. However, they should not contain high levels of saturated fats, sugars, or refined grains. There is also some suggestion that consuming less foods rich in gluten may benefit those who suffer from neuropathy, although further research needs to be conducted into this.
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12. Foods Rich In Vitamin B12
One of the key vitamins that people with neuropathy are deficient in, is vitamin B12. It is particularly common for this deficiency to be found in older adults and in those who take metformin. Without proper levels of vitamin B12, peripheral neuropathy symptoms tend to worsen.
People with neuropathy, therefore, should ask their physician to check their level of vitamin B12. If this is below normal, over the counter supplements are easy to find and are very affordable. Vitamin B12 can also be found naturally in fortified cereals, eggs, lean meat, fish, and poultry.
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13. Going Vegan
There is some evidence to suggest that people who suffer from neuropathic pain can benefit from eating a diet that is 100% plant based. This was confirmed by a study by the Dietary Intervention for Chronic Diabetic Neuropathy Pain (DINE). They completed a study among people who had type 2 diabetes and who suffered from neuropathy.
One group was asked to consume a vegan (no animal products), low fat diet and to take vitamin B12 supplements. The control group did not eat a vegan diet but did take vitamin B12 supplements. It was found that the symptoms of neuropathy improved in both groups, but far more so in those who consumed the vegan diet.
Additionally, marked improvements were seen in overall quality of life, cholesterol, and A1C levels. This would suggest that diabetics in particular should consider a vegan diet with vitamin B12 supplements.
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14. Consider Other Supplements
There are a number of supplements that are believed to be beneficial for people who have neuropathy, most notably to reduce the associated symptoms. B complex vitamins are obviously needed, but there are others as well. Alpha-lipoic acid, for instance, is an antioxidant that is commonly used in Europe as a form of peripheral neuropathy treatment.
Additionally, omega 3 supplements, such as fish oil supplements, may also help to reduce inflammation and improve the flow of blood. Some evidence also suggests that curcumin, which is found in turmeric, a yellow spice, and evening primrose, can improve the symptoms of neuropathy. Before taking any kind of supplement, however, you should always consult a physician.
Besides steps relating to nutrition and other types of medical treatment, there are various other options to consider for the treatment of neuropathy as well. Many people want to avoid pharmaceutical drugs because they lead to side effects and can be habit forming.
However, a lot of people have reported that non-pharmaceutical treatments, including relaxation techniques, meditation, biofeedback, and acupuncture have benefited them.
In fact, some of these treatments, particularly acupuncture and relaxation, are backed by scientific evidence. Before trying any kind of alternative, over the counter, herbal, or supplemental treatment, however, you should always consult with a physician.
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PART 2: Alternative Neuropathy Treatments
Neuropathy happens when the nerves become damaged. In almost all cases, the peripheral nervous system is affected, which is the system that includes the autonomic, sensory, and motor nerves. Those nerves are responsible for voluntarily and involuntarily sending brain messages.
When people have neuropathy, they may have damage to the myelin part of the nerve, which is the substance that covers the nerves and serves as electrical insulation so that the signals are transmitted to the brain through the axons. With the myelin sheath damaged, the nerve signals are not guided through their proper paths. Additionally, the large and/or small fiber nerves can be affected as well.
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15. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a type of Eastern medicine that is used for a variety of different conditions and its effectiveness has been accepted as scientific fact.
It utilizes needles that are inserted in key points in the body, which are believed to be pressure points through which Qi, which is life energy, flows.
Doing so stimulates the central nervous system and the body starts to release endorphins.
Those are hormones that help people feel good, while reducing pain signals at the same time. Endorphins start to flow through the brain, the spine, and the muscles, thereby changing the way the body responds to pain.
A lot of people who suffer from neuropathy use acupuncture to relieve the pain they experience. Not just that but there is some suggestion that nerve damage can be restored because acupuncture also improves blood flow. Research on the exact benefits of the treatment and how it works to treat peripheral neuropathy must still continue, but a number of successful studies have already been completed.
Studies on the veracity of acupuncture are ongoing. The practice is the focus of a great deal of criticism, and many of its claims are unproven, but there is evidence to suggest that its effects extend beyond the expected range of something that relies purely on the placebo effect.
One study was conducted in 2007, which confirmed that patients with neuropathy who received regular medicinal care benefited from having acupuncture as a supplemental therapy, finding greater relief than patients who did not receive this as well.
Additionally, so long as a licensed professional performs the acupuncture, there is no risk to the treatment. That said, it does come with some potential side effects, including:
Pain and bruising. The discomfort is minor, but the needle sites may leave some bruises. Some people also experience a little bit of bleeding.
Injury. This is most likely if the practitioner is not properly trained to offer acupuncture. They may push the needles in too deeply, thereby causing significant injury. Indeed, injuries to the lungs and other organs are not unheard of.
Infections. An acupuncture needle must be sterilized. If it was not properly sterilized, there is the chance of the patient becoming infected with blood borne diseases, some of which are life threatening.
Additionally, it is important to understand that acupuncture is not a treatment that everybody can have. There are a number of medical conditions that increase the chances of the patient experiencing complications, and people with those conditions should therefore avoid acupuncture. They are:
Those with bleeding disorders or who have to take blood thinners for medical reasons. Because of this, acupuncture needle insertion sites will not heal as readily compared to those who do not have these disorders.
Those who are pregnant. While this does not exclude acupuncture as a treatment, it is vital that advice from a physician is sought. This is because some techniques used in acupuncture may induce labor and premature delivery.
Those who have heart problems. In many acupuncture techniques, electrical pulses or heat is applied to the needle sites, which increases the nerve response. Those who have a pacemaker, however, may find that the therapy interferes with their device with potentially lethal consequences.
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16. TENS Therapy
TENS is short for “transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation,” and it requires the use of a specially designed device, which is a little bit smaller than an old-fashioned Walkman. It first became a form of treatment for neuropathy towards the end of the 1990s.
Developed for treating otherwise stubborn nerve pain impulses, the TENS device features two electrodes, which are non-invasively connected to the skin.
The device delivers transcutaneous electrical impulses, which modulate the way pain impulses are sent to the brain.
These are a harmless, low-voltage current, localized to a problem area, which encourages healthy nerve activity through direct stimulation. It uses ,
It is highly effective for some types of neuropathy, but relatively ineffective for others.
Specifically, this stops the spinal cord’s dorsal horn from completing presynaptic transmissions, thereby inhibiting the nociceptive stimuli. Additionally, it has been found that TENS can offer some endogenous pain control by stimulating dynorphins, endorphins, and enkephalins, which are all feel good hormones.
It is common for TENS to be used together with other forms of medication to supplement their effects. People can use a TENS machine for a continuous period of half an hour, and they can continue to use it for a period of several days to several months. A TENS machine usually has three different settings:
Pulsed, which provides a high frequency burst
Acupuncture like, which provides a high intensity stimulus. However, this setting is limited by how well the patient can tolerate the treatment.
Conventional settings
Unfortunately, TENS also has some contraindications and drawbacks to be aware of. That said, most people who tolerate it will only experience minor side effects. The contraindications to be aware of with TENS treatment include:
Irritation of the skin, which is experienced by around a third of all patients. This is mainly caused by the electrode gel drying. It is very important, therefore, that you learn exactly how to use the TENS machine and that you follow instructions.
Hypersensitive reactions of the skin. This is generally a reaction to the tape that keeps the electrodes in place. You can choose to use self-adhesive electrodes instead, which are disposable, but this increases the cost of the machine. Those who use TENS for repeated applications are encouraged to vary the location of their electrodes to avoid this hypersensitive reaction.
Skin burns. These tend to only happen if the TENS machine is used too long or improperly.
Additionally, people must remember to not place the electrodes on any location where they have reduced sensation, which can happen with neuropathy, as it means they would not be able to feel the skin burning.
Pacemaker. Those who have a pacemaker cannot use a TENS machine for similar reasons as with acupuncture.
Pregnant. Those who are pregnant cannot use the TENS machine as it can induce early labor, just like with acupuncture.
While there are some significant and serious disadvantages to TENS, researchers do agree that it provides significant relief of pain in people who suffer from neuropathy. This is particularly true when people first start to use it. Unfortunately, the long term benefits are poorly understood. Some patients continue to find relief by using TENS, others experience quite rapid analgesia.
Unfortunately, the studies that have looked at how long most people can use TENS have been very poorly conducted, which means scientists have not yet found an answer in terms of the effectiveness of the device. That said, good quality studies that support the use of TENS include:
A report by the American Academy of Neurology’s Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee that was published in 2010, which showed TENS to be “probably effective” as a form of treatment for those with diabetic neuropathy. They recommend it as a form of treatment based on reviewing two cohort studies with acceptable inclusion criteria.
A review in the Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine published in 2010, where it was determined that there is consistent research evidence in relation to TENS and its effectiveness on diabetic neuropathy, concluding that it should be a recommended treatment. This was based on three large studies and one smaller study in which inclusion criteria were met.
A meta-analysis completed in 2010 that looked at a variety of controlled trials. This determined that mean pain scores after four to six weeks of using TENS had significantly improved in patients with neuropathy. It also noted a significant subjective improvement in pain levels after 12 weeks of treatment. There was no report at all of adverse effects associated with TENS. Hence, the conclusion was that TENS should be considered as a treatment for diabetic neuropathy. The analysis looked at three randomized control studies in which 78 patients met the relevant inclusion criteria.
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17. Cryotherapy
The pain-numbing benefits of cold-based therapies have been recorded for thousands of years, most famously by the Greek physician Hippocrates. Cryotherapy is used to treat chronic pain as one part of a four-step plan called RICE: “Rest, ice, compression, and elevation.”
Cryotherapy can reduce nervous system activity, and reduce swelling, while lowering skin temperature in a localized area. All of these factors are beneficial to an overall pain management strategy, but their effectiveness is purely short-term, requiring regular (and sometimes lengthy) re-application.
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18. Vitamins
The following vitamins may be of benefit for the treatment of neuropathy:
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B9
Vitamin C
Vitamin B12
Magnesium
Benfotiamine
The B vitamins are considered to be of great importance in various bodily functions, including generating cellular energy and nerve function. Thiamine and benfotiamine have been extensively researched and it is now known that having a thiamine deficiency can be a direct cause of neuropathy.
There is also some evidence to suggest that supplementing with thiamine can help in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy in particular. Benfotiamine is a thiamine derivative. Thiamine is easy to absorb in the digestive system, being fat-soluble.
It is important to identify, not just the vitamin involved, but also what form of the nutrient is used. “Benfotiamine,” for example, is a fat-soluble version of Thiamine, which the body normally has trouble absorbing; this leads to frequent nutritional deficits.
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19. Benfotiamine
Research has shown that benfotiamine has an impact on the various pathways where neuropathy can be found. It also regulates the damage done at the cellular level as a result of high glucose levels.
Furthermore, it helps to fight the various vascular problems that are known to have an impact on neuropathy. There have been a number of clinical trials in which it was shown that taking between 300mg and 600mg of benfotiamine daily can lead to a significant reduction of diabetic neuropathy symptoms in particular.
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20. Vitamin B-12 & B-6
Vitamin B12 is crucial to ensuring that the nervous system functions properly. A deficiency is a direct cause of peripheral neuropathy in particular. Promising results have been uncovered in studies on both animals and humans.
In animal trials, it was demonstrated that nerve damage caused by neuropathy can be extenuated by supplementing with vitamin B12. Specifically, the vitamin activates the specific chemical signal required for nerve regeneration. Additionally, studies have shown that neuropathic symptoms improve significantly when supplementing with both vitamin B12 and B6.
Studies have shown that combining pyridoxal, folic acid, methylcobalamin (a form of vitamin B12) and vitamin B6 can help improve the health of the nerves in the extremities, as well as maintain healthy nerves. In another study, it was shown that the combination can also reduce how long patients with diagnosed diabetic neuropathy stay in a hospital, leading to a significant reduction in medical costs as well.
There have been a few very promising studies on the effects of methylcobalamin in particular. Specifically, it was found that those who took 1,500 mcg daily noticed significant reductions on their level of pain and numbness, while also improving their gait. Furthermore, the studies showed methylcobalamin to be more effective than nortriptyline, which is an antidepressant that many physicians prescribe to those who suffer from neuropathy.
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21. Vitamin C
The effect of vitamin C has also been found to be very significant, particularly for those who have diabetic neuropathy. Studies have shown that diabetics often are vitamin C deficient, caused not by their diet but by their illness.
Indeed, people with a diabetic neuropathy diagnosis often have elevated used vitamin C levels, with reduced levels of usable vitamin C. What this means is that having neuropathy significantly inhibits the body’s ability to store and use vitamin C appropriately, which in turn means supplementation may be necessary.
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22. Vitamin E
It is also common for people with diabetic neuropathy to have low vitamin E levels. According to scientific research, supplementing with vitamin E can lead to a significant improvement in the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Furthermore, this vitamin improves overall health and nerve function in those with type 2 diabetes in particular.
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23. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is one of the most essential vitamins in the body that is believed to affect virtually every bodily function, including the nerves. Typically, people with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes have low levels of vitamin D. Those with neuropathy often have a vitamin D deficiency. A study was completed in 2008 that looked at 51 different patients and found that taking vitamin D supplements led to a 50% reduction in pain levels.
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Nutrients
The following nutrients are believed to be of benefit to those who suffer from neuropathy:
Chromium picolinate
Alpha lipoic acid
Fish oil/omega 3 fatty acids
Acetyl L-carnitine
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
Kava kava
Resveratrol
Curcumin
24. Acetyl L-Carnitine
Acetyl l-carnitine is of particular interest. It is an amino acid that has been found to be beneficial for the treatment of conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Most people with neuropathy have a carnitine deficiency, which has led to research being conducted into its effects.
This research has shown that carnitine supplements can reduce insulin resistance, which has a direct effect on how cells can properly use glucose, leading to nerve regeneration. A number of other studies have also shown that acetyl l-carnitine supplements help nerves to regenerate, improve a patients’ ability to feel vibration in their limbs, and reduce pain.
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25. Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha lipoic acid, meanwhile, is produced in each of the body’s cells. Many different bodily functions rely on it for their performance, particularly on how the body metabolizes glucose. Alpha lipoic acid is a fatty acid and a powerful antioxidant. It helps the body convert blood sugar into energy.
In Germany, alpha lipoic acid is prescribed to those diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy. Research has shown that people with that condition notice significant improvements because the body is better able to metabolize glucose. Additionally, studies have shown that it improves blood flow to the nerves, thereby ensuring that they are able to effectively use energy.
Very promising results have been found through clinical trials. In one trial, it was shown that taking three daily 600mg doses of alpha lipoic acid for a three week period significantly improved neuropathic symptoms.
Patients noted that both their pain and burning sensations were reduced significantly after just one week. In 2011, a further trial was conducted showing that those who took one 600mg supplement daily for four years had improved neuropathic symptoms and that progression of the condition had slowed down significantly.
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26. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)
NAC, meanwhile, is also believed to be beneficial in the treatment of neuropathic symptoms. Specifically, it is a very strong antioxidant that is believed to enhance the function of other antioxidants already in the body, particularly glutathione. Research has shown that it provides protection from oxidative damage and stress to the nerves.
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27. Curcumin
Curcumin, a yellow pigment found in the Curcuma longa plant (turmeric), is believed to help patients with neuropathy. That said, little scientific research has been completed on it to date, with studies still ongoing.
So far, however, it is believed that curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and that it might be able to lower pain signals from the nerves, while at the same time preventing oxidative damage from affecting the nerves.
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28. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a phytochemical supplement that is found naturally in red wine and grapes. Studies on animals have shown promising results in terms of it protecting against neuropathy because it fights oxidative stress and inflammation.
In one study, it was demonstrated that taking resveratrol together with insulin led to a marked reduction in pain sensitivity.
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29. Magnesium
Studies have also shown that most people in the western world have a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is very important, as it helps to clot the blood. Furthermore, it ensures nerve and muscle function is preserved. Research has shown that people who have neuropathy find their symptoms worsen if they experience a magnesium deficiency. Since our diet alone does not provide us with enough magnesium, supplementation of 400mg taken twice per day is recommended.
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Herbs
Some of the most commonly used herbal ingredients in neuropathy treatment supplements are provided below.
30. Passionflower
For centuries, the extract of the colorful passionflower plant has been used to help alleviate stress and anxiety.
It provides a mild sedative effect, but without the drowsiness that frequently accompanies modern medicines; enthusiasts believe that it increases focus and mental clarity, while calming nervousness and reducing inflammatory conditions.
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31. American Skullcap
A traditional American Indian remedy for infectious diseases and chronic pain, American Skullcap is now cultivated worldwide, and is used as a popular herbal supplement.
Like most of the herbs used in treating nerve pain, Skullcap is believed to have calming and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which help with neuropathy-related pain management.
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32. Oat Straw
Oat Straw Extract is procured from green oats, before they are roasted, and is widely available throughout the western world. Its popularity as a health supplement is rooted partly in its properties as an antioxidant, but is also based on a widely-reported calming effect.
It may have a much more direct impact on pain management than the calming benefit provided by other herbal supplements, and is a popular ingredient in many neuropathy treatments.
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33. Feverfew Extract
A native of Asia Minor, the feverfew plant has been used as a nutritional supplement for hundreds, if not thousands of years, as a preventative measure for the treatment of migraine headaches. In modern times, Feverfew Extract is also taken to help treat irregular menstrual cycles, fevers, asthma, and a host of neurological disorders.
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Home Remedies For Neuropathy
A number of home remedies are also possible for neuropathy, including:
Essential oils
Cinnamon
Cayenne pepper
Evening primrose oil
Botanical oils
Mustard oil
Brahmi oil
Castor oil
However, these are not supported by scientific evidence as of yet and may be due to a placebo effect.
Supplements
There are several neuropathy supplements available for purchase which were specifically developed to help treat nerve pain, often involving years of research and development.
They rely on the results of dozens of clinical studies assuring the safety of their ingredients, even in the high dosages in which they are often represented. Many of these are based on vitamin supplementation, which has been shown to be effective as described above.
There are many different types of supplements available including topical gels, creams, and pills. Some of the most popular products include Nerve Renew, Nervestra, and Nerve Pain Away.
Summary
Clearly, there are numerous ways to treat neuropathy that does not involve pharmaceutical medications. Most people have to try numerous alternative treatments and combinations of different ones before finding something that works for them. It should be noted, however, that it is very important to always speak to a physician before attempting any kind of alternative treatment.
https://neuropathyreliefguide.com/neuropathy-treatments/
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