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New Developments in Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a neurological disorder involving damaged sensory nerves in the extremities. Symptoms include tingling, burning, muscle atrophy or numbness. While there is no cure, there are some promising new developments in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy.

  1. Treatment Goals

    • The primary goals of treatment are to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further damage to promote the regeneration of peripheral nerves. Since peripheral neuropathy commonly affects diabetics, proper glucose management should also be addressed.

    Gabapentin

    • According to Kathy Brooks-Rock, RN, BSN, this anticonvulsant drug may increase levels of y-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain and inhibit the release of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters suspected of triggering pain receptors.

    Pregabalin

    • This compound is chemically similar to gabapentin but is better absorbed. Since less of the drug is needed to achieve comparable pain-killing effects, there is less risk of adverse side effects to the central nervous system.

    Alpha Lipoic Acid

    • According to a study published in the March 26, 2003 issue of Diabetes Care, intravenous supplementation with the antioxidant alpha lipoic acid significantly decreases pain associated with diabetic neuropathy due to improving glucose metabolism.

    Photo Energy Therapy (PET)

    • PET uses infrared light to encourage nerve regeneration by stimulating nitric oxide release, which relaxes capillaries and improves circulation.

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