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Alternative Pain Management for Diabetic Neuropathy

Alternative Pain Management for Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic medical conditions from which people suffer. There are a number of common complications that develop in people with diabetes, including diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is the gradual progression of nerve damage that results from chronically high blood sugar levels. Diabetic neuropathy commonly takes place in the fingers and toes first, and is not unusual for people to experience it in their legs and feet. In some cases, diabetic neuropathy can be extremely debilitating. There are options for pain relief for those who are looking to avoid prescription medications.

Focus on Diet

Diet plays a major role in managing diabetic neuropathy. You should avoid inflammatory foods, such as processed foods and sugar. In addition, you should target food with lots of alpha-lipoic acid such as red meat, organ meat, spinach, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, and tomatoes. You may want to take alpha-lipoic acid as a supplement. 

There are several other supplements that may be helpful in managing diabetic neuropathy. These include: 

  • Vitamin D 
  • Vitamin B 
  • Acetyl-l-carnitine 

Before taking the supplements, you should speak with your doctor about dosages and side effects as well as conflicts with other medications that you are taking.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is essential for  controlling diabetic neuropathy. When you are dealing with neuropathy, you may feel physically unable to exercise. Fortunately, vigorous exercise is not required. Simply walking for 30 minutes a day can help you manage diabetic neuropathy. Exercise releases endorphins, which can lift your mood and provide pain relief. Regular exercise sends a message to your body that you are still using those nerves.

Control Blood Pressure

Blood pressure control is critical to managing neuropathy. Many times, you can control your blood pressure with diet and exercise. Eating a healthy diet that is relatively low in fat, keeps your blood pressure low and regular exercise can promote cardiovascular health, keeping your blood pressure in check.

Stop Smoking 

Smoking increases your blood pressure. Smoking also causes constriction of the blood vessels and restricts blood flow to the nerves thereby making the pain of diabetic neuropathy worse over time.

Meditation Is Helpful

Meditation can help you manage diabetic neuropathy. It is important because it helps you calm your mind, alleviate stress, and focus on your surroundings. When you meditate, focus on each individual body part from head to toe. If you communicate with each part of your body, you may be able to better manage diabetic neuropathy.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can be helpful by sending signals to nerves that block large pain signals from reaching the brain. Not all TENS units are created equal. If you are interested in TENS therapy, the SOLIS Pain Relief Management System is specifically designed to deliver results for individuals dealing with chronic pain, including diabetic neuropathy.


Live Life Without Pain While Managing Diabetic Neuropathy

It is important to take a well-rounded approach when dealing with diabetic neuropathy. Medications may be helpful for some people, but nearly all medications come with a long list of potential side effects.  Many people are looking for ways to avoid prescription drugs. The SOLIS Pain Relief System is proven to provide relief from the pain of without drugs.