Capsaicin is the substance found in cayenne peppers responsible for their spicy and hot flavor. Research about capsaicin's role in pain relief for conditions including diabetic neuropathy show positive results. Doctors often recommend using capsaicin for pain relief to augment other treatment in diabetic neuropathy care. Talk to your doctor about the details of its use before you try it.
About Diabetes Neuropathy
Your body's nerves can become damaged with prolonged and sustained high blood sugar in diabetes. Although diabetic neuropathy is not inevitable, it occurs in 50 percent of those affected by diabetes, usually 10 to 20 years after diagnosis, according to MedlinePlus. It's a long term complication that can be avoided with proper blood sugar regulation, but when nerve damage has occurred symptoms can occur throughout the body. A typical symptom is deep pain felt in the extremities, particularly the feet.
Capsaicin
The hot and spicy flavors that abound when cooking with cayenne peppers is just one of the benefits of its active ingredient capsaicin. Today, capsaicin is often found in over-the-counter and prescription topical creams and capsules. When applied to the skin, capsaicin works to suppress substance P, a chemical messenger sent to the brain to signal pain. Doctors often recommend capsaicin creams for pain from rheumatoid arthritis and shingles, as well as diabetic neuropathy.
Research
A 2000 study review in the journal "Clinical Diabetes" found that capsaicin appears effective in relieving pain involved with diabetes compared to placebo. The study review found that applying capsaicin for pain does lead to compliance issues. Reasons include burning and redness at application, an initial worsening of symptoms and the need for frequent application of the capsaicin cream.
Recommendations
Capsaicin topical creams are typically available in 0.025 percent to 0.075 percent strength preparations. Apply the cream to the affected painful areas, but avoid any areas of the skin that are cracked or wounded. Burning upon application is a common initial symptom, but this should diminish after a few days. It takes three to seven days to notice pain relief, so consistent application is important. Discuss using capsaicin for diabetic neuropathy, and how often, with your doctor first.
