Diabetic neuropathy or peripheral neuropathy pain affects up to 3 million new US cases per year. While neuropathy is incurable, some treatments can help. This disorder requires a medical diagnosis and is a type of chronic pain that can last for a lifetime. Neuropathy pain is most common in adults between the ages of 41-60 but can still affect 19-40 age groups as well. The damage associated often occurs in the hands and feet. Symptoms include pain and numbness in the legs, and in more severe cases issues with the digestion system.
Peripheral Neuropathy Pain Soothed By Warm Baths
Pain, tingling, and even burning can often render you incapacitated, but studies show that soaking your feet in a hot tub of water can provide instant relief. This option is not only relaxing, but it helps blood circulation return to the feet. Since there is a loss of sensation in the feet, make sure to regulate the temperature of the water.
Neuropathy pain can be treated with exercise such as yoga!
Diabetes and Exercise
In all aspects of life, exercise is a natural pain reliever, and that is no different for the pain of diabetic neuropathy. Since diabetes is the contributor to the damage caused to your body, exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels which in turn slow the damage to your nerves. It also increases blood flow throughout your body. Since exercise releases endorphins, it also helps elevate your mood and relieves stress which allows you to deal better with the discomfort. A study from the University of Kansas Medical Center showed a correlation between exercise and neuropathy finding those who regularly exercise did not let their pain get in the way of their daily activities.
Diabetic Neuropathy Pain & Controlling Blood Sugar
Since the root of diabetic neuropathy stems from diabetes, getting your diet in check and managing your blood sugar should be your priority. When your blood glucose levels get too high, excess sugar damages peripheral nerves. These nerves connect to your spinal cord and brain, which connect to the rest of your body. According to the National Institute of Diabetes, if you bring your hemoglobin A1C reading to 7% or lower, you will reduce your risk of nerve damage by 60%!
Topical Compounds and Neuropathy Pain
While the above practices may be able to provide some relief, it is common that exercise is impossible when the pain gets to be too severe. A topical compound is an effective pain reliever to be used in conjunction with exercise and daily activities because it does not have side effects like narcotic pain relievers. One of the many benefits of topical compounds is the ability to apply directly to the impacted areas while going on with your life.