Neuropathy, or, more specifically, peripheral neuropathy, is a common condition which can cause a range of painful and irritating symptoms. Fortunately, it is usually manageable. If you or someone you love has this condition, this article is for you. Following is a brief summary of what neuropathy is and how it can be treated, as well as four natural supplements to consider when find it necessary to reach out for natural remedies for neuropathy.
Neuropathy Is Manageable
Peripheral neuropathy is damage which has occurred to the peripheral nervous system. There are in fact more than 100 types of peripheral neuropathy, but they are frequently discussed collectively. There are three types of nerves within the nervous system – motor nerves, sensory nerves, and autonomic nerves. In most cases of peripheral neuropathy, all three types of fibers are affected. Neuropathy is rather prevalent, affecting about 2.4% of the general population, and 8% of the elderly populations, per recent research.
Both the prevalence and the symptoms contribute to the widespread reputation of this condition as bothersome. The foremost symptom of neuropathy is numbness in the hands and/or feet which can set in gradually and spread up the limbs. Additional symptoms can include sharp or burning sensations, weakness, sensitivity to touch, and pain during daily activities. Many potential causes exist, and we’ll mention the primary ones: autoimmune disease, diabetes, infection, and hereditary conditions.
Treatment is frequently recommended for peripheral neuropathy. Effective treatment usually follows a proper medical diagnosis. Multiple types of pharmaceutical medicine are commonly prescribed to treat the underlying causes and symptoms of this condition. Unique medical therapies and physical therapy can also provide meaningfully beneficial effects to treat and manage neuropathy. Lifestyle choices including nutrition are a factor in neuropathy management.
Supplements for Neuropathy
Neuropathy is treatable, and methods to treat the underlying causes are best; this includes the utilization of dietary supplements, where nutritional deficiencies could be contributing to neuropathy. Because of this scientifically supported conclusion, here is a look at four supplements for treating/managing this condition:
Vitamin D has therapeutic effects which have been increasingly studied in recent years; among the benefits is the utility of reducing pain associated with diabetic neuropathy (and other conditions, as well). Serious studies have validated the usage of vitamin D3 for this use, especially in doses of 2,000 IU daily, or much higher.
Vitamin B12 is another vitamin closely tied to physiological factors affecting diabetic neuropathy. Studies have shown significant reduction in neuropathic pain and somatosensory in diabetes patients when they are taking vitamin B12 daily.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is an important amino acid which also functions as an antioxidant. Research in the last decade has tied the usage of acetyl-L-carnitine to reduced pain from peripheral neuropathy, as well as the ability to help regenerate nerve fibers and improve nerve conductivity. All of these benefits aptly apply to someone experiencing neuropathy.
Curcumin is the active ingredient found in and derived from turmeric. The benefits of concentrated curcumin are its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties that can reduce the multiple predominant symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy.
If you or someone you love has neuropathy, don’t allow it to go on without using the accessible treatments that are available to you. Consider how these four natural supplements can help you. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.