A post by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases shows that more than 30% of people who have diabetes have autonomic neuropathy. This condition occurs when the nerve cells throughout the body get damaged by high sugar levels.
If left untreated, the condition can impact your physical and social aspects of life. It can result in complications such as reduced sensation, infections, and even amputation. However, with effective diabetic neuropathy treatment, you can take control of the condition.
Explore the various effective diabetic neuropathy treatment options in Chicago, IL, to help you manage the condition.
Pharmacological Treatment Options
These treatment options help you manage diabetic complications by relieving pain. They also improve nerve function and control blood sugar levels. Pharmacological treatments are classified into the following categories.
Over the Counter (OTC) Medications
OTC medications that can help you manage neuropathy pain are ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Ibuprofen medication works by reducing inflammation. This can help provide relief if you experience mild to moderate pain.
Ibuprofen is not recommended for long-term use because of side effects such as:
- Kidney issues like edema
- Stomach upsets
- Stomach ulcers
- Mild itching
- Drowsiness
Acetaminophen, on the other hand, works by inhibiting pain signals in your brain. Just like with Ibuprofen, this also relieves mild neuropathic pain.
While these OTC medications are convenient, they might not relieve moderate to severe pain. You may need more advanced treatment options if the condition is severe.
Prescription Medications
Prescription medication may be recommended if your neuropathy pain persists. Some prescriptions for treating diabetic neuropathy that healthcare professionals in Chicago, IL, may recommend include:
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Topical treatments
These medications offer relief by specifically targeting nerve pain. For instance, antidepressants can alter your brain’s perception of pain, effectively reducing discomfort.
Anticonvulsants like gabapentin can help calm your overactive nerve signals. This will offer you significant relief from chronic pain.
Topical treatments like capsaicin cream can be applied directly to the affected area to also offer nerve pain relief. Together, these medications can be highly effective. However, they also have side effects such as:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
Consider consulting a healthcare professional in Chicago, IL, to find the right combination and dosage for your needs.
Alternative Therapies for Neuropathy
Alternative therapies offer a holistic approach to chronic pain management. They will help address the underlying causes of nerve damage while enhancing your overall well-being. Here are some of the options you might consider.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a Chinese healing technique in which fine needles are placed into specific points in your body. It eliminates pain by stimulating the release of endorphins - the body’s natural pain relievers. This helps reduce common neuropathy symptoms such as:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Burning sensations
Acupuncture can also improve your body’s blood circulation. This will ensure nerves receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients. As a result, inflammation will reduce, allowing your body to repair damaged nerves.
By targeting specific nerve points, acupuncture relieves acute and chronic pain. While more research is needed, this technique is considered a complementary therapy for pain management.
Nutritional Supplements
Supplements with neuroprotective properties can help you manage the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. Their nutritional and antioxidant properties reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They also improve blood flow to the nerves, promoting nerve repair.
Some of the natural supplements with such properties include:
- Alpha lipoic acid
- Vitamins B12, B6, and B1
- Curcumin
- Magnesium
While these supplements can help you manage the condition, some, like B6, if taken in excess, can cause nerve damage. That’s why you should consult a healthcare specialist to determine the right dosage before taking them.
Lifestyle Modifications
Making lifestyle adjustments can help you alleviate symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Some of the changes you can make to slow the progression of diabetic neuropathy include:
- Eating healthy diets that support nerve health
- Consuming antioxidant-rich foods
- Avoiding processed sugars and carbs
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying hydrated
- Quitting smoking
- Stress management
- Limiting alcohol intake
Physical activities can also help prevent further nerve damage, especially to the hands and feet. They stimulate the release of endorphins, which naturally eliminate pain.
However, before starting any exercise program, consult with a healthcare provider. They can assist you in choosing safe and appropriate activities for your specific condition.
Advanced Treatment Options
Advanced treatments become essential when conventional therapies fail, and the damage progresses. If this happens, your functional abilities and quality of life will be impacted. Below are some of the advanced treatments that can help address diabetic neuropathy.
Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS is a non-invasive therapy that uses a compact device that sends electrical impulses to the brain. The device gets attached to the skin, allowing the impulses to disrupt the pain signals traveling to the brain. This creates an override that reduces the sensation of pain.
Electrical stimulation also boosts the release of endorphins, which offer therapeutic effects. While TENS is safe and non-invasive, it’s most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Surgical Options and Emerging Treatments
Surgery may be necessary where your nerves are severely compressed or damaged. The loss of functions such as mobility necessitates the need for this intervention. Some types of surgeries you may undergo include:
- Decompression surgery for nerve pressure release
- Nerve repair or grafting
- Spinal cord stimulation
Other emerging treatments for managing diabetic neuropathy that are still under research include:
- Gene therapy for regenerating damaged nerve tissue
- Neuromodulation devices for stimulating healing
- Stem cell therapy for regenerating damaged tissues
While these emerging treatments show promise, they require careful consideration. They can cause risks such as infection when done incorrectly.
Visit a Professional Chiropractor for Quality Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment
Diabetic neuropathy can significantly impact your day-to-day life, causing numbness, pain, and discomfort. If unmanaged, it can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. However, effective diabetic neuropathy treatment can help manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being.
At Innovative Nerve and Joint Centers in Chicago, our experienced chiropractors specialize in personalized, non-invasive treatments tailored to reduce neuropathy symptoms without risky surgeries or procedures.
Schedule a consultation with us today and initiate your journey towards a pain-free future.
