Neuropathy is caused by damage to the peripheral nervous system in the body. This medical problem can cause myriad unpleasant symptoms, most frequently weakness, pain, and numbness of the hands and feet. It is commonly diagnosed in patients with diabetes. Neuropathy may also affect other areas of the body. It can result from a traumatic injury, an infection, exposure to toxins, metabolic issues, or genetic. Most of the pain from neuropathy is described as a burning, tingling, or stabbing sensation in various body areas. Here are some of the best ways to treat neuropathy so you can get the relief you need.
Medication
Once neuropathy has been diagnosed, there are several types of medications your doctor may advise. These include:
- Common pain relievers like over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Aleve).
- Anti-seizure medication such as Lyrica was originally developed to treat epilepsy but may also relieve nerve pain.
- Topical skin treatments like capsaicin cream or lidocaine patches. This treatment is applied directly to the skin to offer quick pain relief.
- Antidepressants have been shown to relieve pain by interfering with the chemical process in your brain and spinal cord that cause you to feel pain, and they work well with neuropathy caused by diabetes.
Therapeutic Treatments
Medication is not the only way to treat neuropathy, and it may work better in conjunction with a variety of therapy options. Some of these therapy treatments include:
- TENS, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, electrodes placed onto the skin to deliver a gentle electric current. The TENS unit can be adjusted to various frequencies, and it can be used daily for around one month at a time.
- Plasma exchanges and intravenous immune globulin injections may help suppress immune system activity to relieve inflammation.
- Physical therapy works to combat muscle weakness and improve range of motion. Your doctor might also recommend using a hand or foot brace, a cane, walker, or a wheelchair to assist you with moving around.
- In some cases, surgery can be performed that will relieve pressure on the nerves. This is most commonly used when a patient experiences neuropathy due to a tumor, and the surgery can help reduce or even eliminate the pressure inside the body.
For your personal medical concerns and a free consultation, call Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, Georgia, today.
