Diabetic neuropathy is a form of nerve damage that affects people who routinely have high blood sugar. Neuropathy, specifically peripheral neuropathy, causes feelings of tingling, burning, numbness and pain in the arms and legs. Many people who are diagnosed with diabetic neuropathy experience symptoms in their feet. Medication and lifestyle changes can help relieve the pain of diabetic neuropathy.
Step 1
Manage your blood glucose levels to minimize symptoms of neuropathy and to prevent further complications associated with nerve damage. Consult with your physician about the frequency with which you should be testing your blood sugar levels. Hire a nutritionist if you need assistance with following a healthy diabetic diet.
Step 2
Take daily walks if you are able. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) states that some people who suffer from diabetic neuropathy pain get some relief from regular exercise. Soaking in a warm bathtub may also help make pain levels more manageable, according to NINDS.
Step 3
Try to relieve some nerve pain by donning compression stockings or socks. Compression garments are typically used to treat varicose veins, but it may be beneficial to some diabetic neuropathy sufferers. Find compression footwear at medical supply stores.
Step 4
Speak to your physician about using medication to relieve the discomfort associated with neuropathy. Ordinary pain relievers may offer some comfort. Anti-seizure medication and antidepressant drugs may also be prescribed to treat nerve pain. Two drugs in particular, duloxetine and pregabalin, are U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy, according to the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse (NDIC).
Step 5
Apply topical medications to the areas of the body in which you experience neuropathy pain. Capsaicin, a chemical found in chili peppers and medicated ointments, provides relief to some people, explains the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Wearing a prescription patch that contains anesthetics, such as lidocaine, may also help.
Step 6
Use a natural approach to treating neuropathic pain by taking evening primrose oil supplements. This supplement is commonly used to treat skin irritation, inflammation and pre-menstrual syndrome symptoms. The NDIC offers evidence that the oil may also be beneficial to those who suffer from nerve pain as well. Discuss all supplement use with your doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Compression stockings
- Prescription medications
- Evening primrose oil
