3 Ways You Can Find Relief From Peripheral Neuropathy

10 November 2017
 Categories: , Blog


If you have tingling, pain, numbness, and/or weakness in your limbs—especially your feet and hands—you may have peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a symptom of many conditions, like diabetes and arthritis. However, even if you have no pre-existing condition, you can still experience this problem. Here are three ways you can find some relief.

Make an Appointment with a Chiropractor

As people get older, it's common for the joints of the spine to wear down and compress nerves, thus causing neuropathy. If you have no other conditions that you know of, your chiropractor may be able to get rid of your neuropathy for good with a few spinal adjustments. These adjustments will take some of the pressure off the nerves.

Sometimes peripheral neuropathy can be caused by scar tissue. If tissue didn't heal properly, then muscles can become weaker and tighter, thus causing tendonitis. Tendonitis causes tendons to become inflamed and, in some cases, compress nerves. A chiropractor may use active release techniques (ART) to break up the scar tissue that is impinging nerves. Some chiropractic services also offer massage therapy, which can help break up scar tissue that may be affecting nerves.

Use a TENS unit

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) units are great for many people with chronic peripheral neuropathy, like those with diabetes.

A TENS unit is a small machine that has electrodes that can be placed on skin near the area of pain. When turned on, this device sends electrical impulses to disrupt pain impulses that are being sent to the brain.

There are some pros and cons with TENS units. While some people can find long-term relief, others may only find relief when using the TENS unit. Also, TENs units cannot be used if you have a pacemaker or if you're pregnant. While these machines are very safe to use, some people experience skin irritations.

Ultimately, it's best to talk with your doctor to make sure that you're a good fit before purchasing or leasing a unit.

Improve Your Diet and Exercise Regimen

Controlling blood sugar levels may help some people control their neuropathy. Eating a diet full of fruits and veggies is key since these foods are full of antioxidants and vitamins, which heal nerves and destroy free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can damage healthy cells, thus creating problems with nerve transmission.

If you are in good health and able to, consider adding an exercise regimen. Your doctor or chiropractor can give you exercise ideas that will help you relieve pain. Exercises that improve flexibility can also improve your circulation and stimulate nerve conduction. 


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