What is peripheral neuropathy?
by Ask a Healer
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B-12 Deficiency Can Cause Neuropathy
Question on health care and healing: I believe I have developed some nerve damage from my diabetes. I've read about peripheral neuropathy being a possible complication that can develop with diabetes. Are there any natural ways to deal with diabetic neuropathy.
Healing Facilitation Response: First, let me say that a proper diagnosis is critical. Just because you have symptoms of neuropathy, that doesn't mean it is caused by your diabetes although it that diagnosis might be likley to come There are other causes, ranging from vitamin deficiencies to infections, genetic factors, nerve impingement or tumors. Certain medications may cause neuropathy as may longterm alcohol abuse. That being said, it is quite common for diabetics to eventually experience neuropathy, especially in diabetics who have trouble controlling blood sugar levels and particularly those who have had diabetes for 25 years or longer. First thing, I'd suggest making sure that you do have peripheral neuropathy. See your doctor. And then look at all possible causes, including diabetes, that could be contributing factors.
However, in the wholistic health model, other factors such as pinched nerves and vitamin B-12 deficiency need to be considered as well. I'd personally rule out Vitamin B deficiency if you are more than a casual drinker, if you are taking an acid blocker, or if you don't eat dairy products or meat. A chiropractor can determine whether you have a pinched nerve or impinged nerve that may be causing stinging or tingling. The type of chiropractor I get best results with is a B.E.S.T. Chiropractor.
Natural Remedies for Diabetes-Related Neuropathy? Now, in answer to your question about whether there are natural remedies for peripheral neuropathy, the answer is yes. B-Vitamins are natural nerve healers and, in particular, B-1, B-2, Folic Acid and B-6 have been used in natural remedies targeting diabetes-related and other forms of peripheral neuropathy. Alpha lipoic acid is also being studied for this purpose. Learn more about Alpha lipoic acid for diabetic neuropathy
I also saw a good essential oils recipe for neuropathy on twitter, from user @Emilylosesit: "I make a cream with coconut oil & frankincense, Cedarwood, lavender,peppermint, & lemongrass." Thanks Emily.
Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy: One of the common symptoms is a constant tingling feeling in the feet. Sometimes, there is also pain, as if something is stabbing your foot and other times it feels like a burning sensation or even an electrical feeling. For some, there is just a feeling of heaviness or tiredness to their extremities.
Being diabetic definitely increases the risk of developing peripheral neuropathy since this condition is so common among diabetics that an estimated one-third of all diabetics suffer with it to some degree.
Diabetes Health Minute: Did you know .... High blood sugar levels are considered a factor in the development of diabetes-related nerve damage? To reduce your risk of developing diabetes-related neuropathy, ask your doctor for your optimal blood sugar levels range and then to test periodically to make sure you are within the range set by your doctor. Other factors in autonomic neuropathy include being overweight and smoking so working to lose weight and give up cigarettes can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes-related nerve damage in the future.
Diabetic Health Care Disclaimer: Diabetes is a serious, and sometimes life-threatening condition. The wholistic health perspective shared here is NOT meant to replace needed medical diagnosis or treatment for diabetes or diabetes-related conditions including peripheral neuropathy, vision problems related to diabetes or kidney complications related to being a diabetic.
Also, as noted above, there are other health factors which may contribute to symptoms of neuropathy and those should certainly be ruled out. The alternative health care / spiritual healing information provided here is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your chosen healthcare professional for proper guidance on treating diabetes.
