Diabetes Leg Pain Treatment

Pain in the legs due to diabetes complications is unfortunately very common for those who suffer from the illness. It is important to discuss this pain with your physician at the onset of the, pain as sometimes the nerves are weakened by a condition called neuropathy. Neuropathy is usually a result of years of uncontrolled high blood sugar and can mask the pain of problems caused by poor circulation such as ulcers and burning of the feet. If you ignore the pain for too long, it can result in serious complications, including amputation from unchecked infection.

Prescription Medication

• One side effect of many antidepressants is an increased relief of nerve pain. A common mistake is to believe that one must be depressed in order to receive these kinds of medications. Some doctors also believe that anti-convulsant medication (used for treating patients with seizures) can also help decrease nerve pain. Talk with your doctor, and together you can decide if a course of action involving antidepressants or anti-seizure medication will be right for you.

Oral Over-the-Counter Medication

• Although some people see improvement in nerve pain from ibuprofen, the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse suggests that you stay away from it, as it has not proven to benefit those suffering from nerve pain. Instead, it suggests that you take evening primrose oil or alpha-liopic acid to increase nerve function and decrease pain.

Topical Ointment

• Lidocaine patches and capsaicin cream have been proven effective by the National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse. It recommends you apply the cream or patches to your legs and feet liberally and claims that this will relieve a large amount of pain you may feel from your neuropathy.

Bed Cradle

• A bed cradle, available at most medical supply stores, can help keep blankets and sheets off of your feet and legs, which may provide some relief if those are constantly irritating to you.

Alternative Treatments

• If you are looking for relief a non-traditional way, talk to an acupuncturist about techniques he can use to keep you in control of your pain. You can also speak with your doctor about discussing a plan of action with a physical therapist in order to keep you going.

Take Good Care of Your Feet

• If you have a neuropathy, you should take good care of your feet to avoid complications. Wash your feet in the shower or bath and apply lotion liberally. Pumice off excess skin with a pumice stone or get pedicures regularly. Keep your toenails maintained and always wear shoes that are comfortable and that do not cut or pinch your feet.