Neuropathy Cures

Peripheral neuropathy usually manifests itself as numbness and pain in your hands and feet. Usually the signal of another underlying disorder, the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy is often described as tingling or burning. Though diabetes is one of the leading causes of neuropathy, infection, injuries, toxins and metabolic problems also can trigger the condition. Most often, neuropathy can be cured if the underlying condition is treated, however, there are some treatments that target the symptoms of neuropathy as well.

Treatment

• If the underlying cause of neuropathy is treated, the numbness and pain will resolve on their own. However, your doctor may also prescribe drugs to help you with the pain associated with neuropathy. If your symptoms are mild, over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen are usually enough. If not, your doctor may prescribe something more powerful. It is important to be careful because some of these drugs contain opiates that can be addictive. Also, some drugs designed to treat epilepsy such as gabapentin, topiramate and pregabalin help with pain. These drugs often have side effects like dizziness and drowsiness.

Other Medication

• Your doctor may also suggest you apply a patch with the topical anesthetic lidocaine. By applying it to the area with the most pain, these patches will numb the region. You can use up to three patches per day. The only side effect people have experienced is a rash at the site of the patch. Medications used to fight depression such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline are also used in people with neuropathy. By interfering with the way your brain and spinal cord process pain, these medications stop symptoms associated with neuropathy.

Home Cures

• It is important to take proper care of your feet if you have neuropathy. If you wear tight socks or tight shoes, it can lead to more intense pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, soft, loose cotton socks and padded shoes are recommended. It is also important to exercise to control the level of sugar in your blood and help reduce pain. Doctors also recommend that you quit smoking since it has a negative affect on your circulatory system. Other ways to avoid worsening neuropathy are massaging your hands and feet and avoiding placing too much pressure on your elbows and knees for long periods.