Damage to any peripheral nerve can be quite painful and also causes unusual sensations. Usually, the function of peripheral nerves is to transmit nerve impulses to the brain and spinal cord. Therefore, if you are suffering from an injury or a medical condition such as diabetes, these nerves are exposed, resulting in pain. As a result, you experience shooting pains, painful tingling, and hot and cold sensations in the affected area. Suppose you are experiencing any of the above symptoms of Bakersfield peripheral neuropathy and seek treatment. You can begin by learning more about the effective natural remedies available. Below are just a few of them.
· Exercises
Exercise plays an essential role in promoting muscle tone, which is very helpful in reducing neuropathy. Similarly, exercise can help deal with several health concerns that might be causing neuropathy. For instance, diabetes is one of the medical conditions that is known to cause peripheral neuropathy. In this case, exercising helps your body manage blood sugar levels, reducing your risk of developing diabetes and its complications. Exercise also plays a key role in reducing pressure on your peripheral blood vessels, which benefits people at risk of neuropathy.
· Quitting smoking
Smoking is a risk factor for peripheral neuropathy because it damages and narrows blood vessels. It can also worsen nerve damage symptoms even when another lifestyle factor or medical condition is the primary cause of neuropathy. Therefore, quitting smoking is recommended because it improves blood flow and promotes healthy blood vessels.
· Dietary modification
Typically, diabetes is the leading cause of peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, a dietary modification that helps lower your blood sugar levels also helps potentially prevent neuropathy or alleviate its symptoms. Usually, a diet with low simple carbohydrates but rich in fiber can prevent blood sugar levels from spiking. You should also avoid foods such as processed snacks, white bread products, and sweets. Other dietary changes can benefit people diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy irrespective of whether they have diabetes or not. Some changes may include high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables, antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, reduced alcohol intake, reduced sodium intake, and reduced trans and saturated fats.
· Relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques are effective in managing neuropathic pain. You can employ relaxation techniques, including meditation, deep breathing, and progressive relaxation. Similarly, other relaxation techniques such as tai chi, yoga, and blend stretching help improve posture and reduce stress, thus easing the painful effects of neuropathy.
· Alternative medicine
Some people suffering from peripheral neuropathy may benefit from alternative medicine, including chiropractic techniques, acupuncture, and energy-based modalities like Reiki. However, minimal research has been compiled stating the success of these methods and if they are effective in dealing with neuropathic pain. Therefore, it would be better when combined with traditional treatments such as exercises and medication for optimal outcomes when using alternative medicine.
People with peripheral neuropathy experience pain and other symptoms that might require them to use medications together with other natural remedies. You can schedule your appointment at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center today, especially if you have diabetes because you are at risk of developing peripheral neuropathy. Doing so will enlighten you on some effective natural remedies that might work for you.