Diabetic neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage small blood vessels and nerves. Damage commonly occurs in the feet and lower legs and can result in a deep pain, numbness, burning, tingling or weakness. Medline Plus states that symptoms usually begin 10 to 20 years after the diabetes diagnosis. In addition, 50 percent will eventually develop nerve damage. Work closely with your doctor to follow these guidelines for relieving leg pain in diabetic neuropathy.
Alternative Treatments
Step 1
Start walking three to five times a week as much as is comfortable for you. Check your feet for blister or cuts after each bout of walking.
Step 2
Apply capsaicin cream to the areas that are giving you the most leg pain. Reduce the amount of cream or frequency if you experience a rash.
Step 3
Consider acupuncture to help relieve your neuropathic pain. Find an acupuncturist that specializes in treating diabetic neuropathic pain.
Step 4
Ask your doctor to prescribe a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation device (TENS). Apply small electrodes to the areas that are giving you the most pain to allow small electrical impulses to interfere with pain signals.
Medication Options
Step 1
Discuss the option of anti-seizure medications, such as gabapentin, pregabalin and carbamazepine, with your doctor. Alert your doctor if you experience drowsiness, dizziness or swelling, which are common side effects according to the Mayo Clinic.
Step 2
Ask your doctor to prescribe an antidepressant medication, such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, desipramine or imipramine. The Mayo Clinic recommends discussing newer antidepressants, which include serotonin and duloxetine. Avoid dry mouth, sweating, sedation and dizziness by using these medications as directed.
Step 3
Ask your doctor to prescribe a lidocaine patch, which will provide anesthesia to the area of your leg that is causing you the most pain.
Step 4
Discuss the possibility of taking opiod medications if other treatments fail. The Mayo Clinic recommends consulting your doctor if you are becoming addicted to these medications or are experiencing constipation, drowsiness and headaches.
Tips and Warnings
- Prevent the progression of diabetic neuropathy by appropriately taking your diabetes medications, improving your diet, exercising and managing your weight.
- Use caution when taking opiod medications. Do not give medications to anyone else or take medications from someone else.
Things You'll Need
- Capsaicin cream
