Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve disorder that manifests as sharp or shooting pain, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet. The disorder can originate from injury, chemotherapy, exposure to toxins, infections, alcoholism and complications of HIV. Peripheral neuropathy can also result as a complication of advanced diabetes. The disorder is treated medically with prescription-strength pain relievers, antidepressants and seizure medications, but there are also some alternative therapies.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid or ALA has been found to help relieve the painful symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Naturally occurring in the body, ALA assists in turning glucose into energy and acts as an antioxidant. Used in Germany since 1959, treatment includes 1,200 to 1,800 milligrams of ALA daily in capsule form, as the intravenous form is not available in the United States. Results from ALA therapy can be seen in as little as three weeks.
Side effects of ALA dosing range from minor cramping and rash to hypoglycemia, or lowered blood sugar levels. It is important to consult with your doctor before starting ALA therapy as effects on persons with kidney or liver disease and pregnant or nursing women are unknown.
Exercise
When the body is in pain, movement is often the least desirable option, but cardiovascular exercise can actually help reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. A brisk walk or 20-minute aerobic workout will increase your circulation and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. These new blood vessels can slow the progression of the disorder. Exercise also helps the body build natural defenses to pain and stimulates the brain, the center of all our nerves.
Plan a daily routine. If you are not accustommed to regular exercise, consult your doctor before beginning. Start slow and small, planning only 5 to 10 minutes for your first session, and then slowly work up to 20 to 30 minutes daily. You can do this by adding just one minute per day. Brisk walking is an ideal activity because it has very little impact on joints, but indoor work-outs, including stretching and light weights, are also very beneficial.
Acupuncture
According to Chinese medicine, peripheral neuropathy is caused by disharmony in your body. An acupuncture specialist can develop an individual plan for each patient to return his body to harmony through a complete physical exam and patient interview. Cutaneous acupuncture is used to stimulate the blood flow to the affected areas by placing specially made needles into a variety of specified points. Many times, these points are the most tender areas, and some pain may be associated with the procedure. The specialist may also suggest TENS (transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation) therapy in conjunction with cutaneous acupuncture. TENS is achieved through low-volt electricity being passed through the affected areas. Little or no pain is associated with TENS treatment.
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