What alternative treatments are available for diabetics who develop severe neuropathy?
Dealing with diabetes can be difficult enough without adding neuropathy into the mix. Can neuropathy be treated using alternative treatments beyond prescriptions? Some health-conscious individuals shared some treatment options. Keep reading to find out what they recommend (but remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any major health changes or choices).
Dietary Modifications and Supplements
Diabetes-induced neuropathy, which often leads to severe pain and numbness, is something I’ve seen many people grapple with. While treatment to control blood sugar levels is crucial, there are several alternative treatments that can potentially improve symptoms:
1. Dietary Modifications: A balanced diet can help manage blood sugar levels and slow the progression of neuropathy. Introducing omega-3 rich foods, B vitamins, and antioxidants, while reducing sugar intake, can be quite beneficial.
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help lower blood sugar levels, promote weight loss, and boost overall cardiovascular health. Low to mid-intensity exercises, like swimming and yoga, might be particularly beneficial for people dealing with neuropathy.
3. Supplements: Certain dietary supplements like Agmatine Sulfate, ALA, Magnesium (as L-Threonate) and DHA rich omega sources (Krill Oil for example) have shown promise in helping alleviate neuropathic pain.
4. Mind-Body Therapies: Techniques like EFT tapping can help manage pain and improve mental wellbeing in individuals dealing with neuropathy.
5. CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): This might help in dealing with the emotional stressor that comes with chronic pain.
It’s crucial to note that these therapies are all complementary and should be used alongside conventional medicine.
Everyone’s body responds differently, so it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any alternative treatments.
Daily Movement from Exercise
Getting daily movement from exercise can be a great way to improve symptoms of neuropathy. Movement increases oxygen and blood flow to the cells and tissues. It can also decrease blood sugar levels over time, which can have a positive impact on diabetic neuropathy. Routine exercise both preserves and promotes healthy function of the peripheral nerves that are affected in neuropathy.
Therefore, try to get some daily exercise as a natural treatment for neuropathy and get the following benefits:
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● improvements in nerve function
● reductions in neuropathic pain and numbness
● improvements in functional mobility
Traditional Chinese Medicine: Acupuncture
Acupuncture is one complementary therapy for diabetics who experience severe neuropathy. In order to promote healing, acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that involves inserting incredibly tiny needles at precise locations close to or on the skin. By promoting the creation of new nerve cells, controlling neurotransmitter levels, and lowering inflammation, acupuncture reduces neuropathic pain. Acupuncture can also improve nerve conduction and lessen nerve damage.
According to research, acupuncture can assist persons with diabetic neuropathy to feel less pain, numbness, and tingling when used in conjunction with other treatment options. Additionally, it can increase general blood flow and stimulate nerve regeneration.
Relaxation Technique: Breathe Deeply in a Natural Rhythm
Relaxation techniques are one of the best treatments for people with diabetes that develop neuropathy. You can practice rhythmic breathing, taking long and slow breaths. All you need to do is inhale slowly and then exhale slowly. After that, count slowly to five while inhaling, then count gradually to five again as you exhale. Pay close attention to how your body gets relaxed naturally. This is the best relaxation strategy. Visualized breathing is where you can find a comfortable place to close your eyes, envision relaxation entering your body, and allow the tension to decrease. You need to breathe deeply but in a natural rhythm.
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