Peripheral neuropathy is a common condition that affects around 30 percent of Americans. This condition damages the peripheral nerves that carry messages from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. If you suffer from Bakersfield peripheral neuropathy, you may experience pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and feet. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ease the pain and discomfort associated with peripheral neuropathy. Here are ways to help you manage your symptoms.
Exercising
Exercise is a great way to ease peripheral neuropathy pain. Regular exercise can help improve blood flow to the hands and feet, which can help alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Also, exercising can help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing the pressure on your nerves.
However, when you exercise, you don’t have to do anything strenuous. You can benefit from low-impact exercise like swimming, walking, and cycling. If you have any concerns about your ability to exercise, talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program.
Dietary changes
One of the most typical causes of peripheral neuropathy is diabetes. Making dietary changes that lowers your blood sugar levels can ease you peripheral neuropathy pain. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help you maintain a can reduce blood sugar spikes and improve your overall health. Also, reduce consumption of alcohol, sugary beverages, and processed foods.
In addition, you should ensure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. Vitamins B1, B6, and B12 are especially important for nerve health. You can get these vitamins from foods like whole grains, fish, poultry, and eggs.
Try relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help you better manage pain from neuropathy. These techniques can help reduce stress, which can exacerbate the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. They can also help you sleep better, reducing pain and improving your overall well-being.
To start with relaxation techniques, find a quiet place to sit or lie down and focus on your breath. You can also try guided meditation or yoga classes, giving you more structure and support.
Quitting Smoking
If you smoke, quitting is good, as smoking is a risk factor for peripheral neuropathy. Smoking can reduce blood flow to the hands and feet, exacerbating peripheral neuropathy symptoms. Smoking can also damage the nerves in your hands and feet, worsening your symptoms.
Call your doctor if you need it to stop smoking. They can provide resources and support to help you quit for good.
Take supplements
Several supplements support nerve health and reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Alpha-lipoic acid, for example, is an antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and improve nerve function. Acetyl-L-carnitine is another supplement that can help improve nerve function and reduce pain. Before taking any supplements, talk to your doctor. Some supplements may have negative side effects or interfere with certain drugs.
Call Diabetic Foot and Wound Center to book your appointment for treatment of peripheral neuropathy.
