Peripheral neuropathy is condition where the nerves of the
peripheral nervous system get damaged. There are different signs and symptoms
of peripheral neuropathy, but the more common ones are numbness, sensitivity to
touch, tingling sensation, or muscle weakness on the arms, legs, hands and
feet. In some cases, patients experience paralysis or burning pain.
Fortunately, there are ways to effectively control and
manage these symptoms. There are many treatment modalities that neuropathy
patients choose and seek out the right treatment that works for them.
Thiamine
Thiamine deficiency is a very common cause of peripheral
neuropathy. Thiamine or vitamins B1 have various roles in keeping the body
working properly. Lack to thiamine can cause tingling sensations, burning sensation,
sharp pain or numbness to the hands and feet. To counter this, a neuropathy
supplement with thiamine and other nutrients and vitamins are needed like
cobalamine (vitamin B12), DHEA and alpha lipoic acid.
Medications
Over the counter pain relievers can sometimes relieve mild
symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. For nerve pain, physicians usually prescribe
anti seizure medications like garbapentin and phenytoin. Some anti depressants
like amitriptyline has also properties to relieve pain. Lidocaine patches can
be applied to the painful area. Tramadol is an opiate based painkiller reserved
for patients who do not respond to any other treatment. All drug based medications might have side
effects so be aware if any of these products have serious adverse results.
Injection Therapy
This involves injecting a numbing agent like lidocane to the
affected area. This technique provides instant but temporary relief. Lidocane
or other anesthetic agent blocks the nerve impulses from reaching the brain.
Injection therapy is usually done with other treatment modalities like physical
therapy.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is essential to improve blood circulation,
strength and function in areas affected by peripheral neuropathy. This involves active and passive
exercises. Stretching and passive range
of motion exercise are done to maintain range of motion. Muscle strengthening
includes active and resistive and isometric exercise.
Surgery
Surgery is done for certain conditions that may cause
peripheral neuropathy. Carpal tunnel syndrome and a nerve compressing tumor are
good examples that cause peripheral neuropathy and the only effective treatment
is to surgically remove the compressing entity. In this case, the carpal
ligament is permanently cut and the tumor is removed both of with relieve
pressure to the nerves.
Reversing thiamine deficiency with thiamine supplement is a well known and often highly successful way to nutritionally manage peripheral neuropathy.
