What Can Be Done For Diabetic Neuropathy?

I am 47 and diabetic.The pain and numbness in my feet and legs is getting worse. I am on pain meds for it but it doesn’t work to completely eliminate the pain. Some days I cannot function at all. Am I destined to be in a wheelchair?

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This entry was posted onOctober 16th, 2009 at 9:03 pm. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Responses are currently closed, but you can Trackback..

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  1. kuunoita

    Hi, there. Has your doctor not suggested that you take B12 on a regular basis? B12 has been scientifically proven to improve neuropathy and is now widely prescribed by most mainstream physicians. I’m concerned that your doctor appears to be treating the symptoms of neuropathy but is not devoting much time or attention to treating the cause or to prescribing meds that are known to alleviate the pain of neuropathy without causing the drowsiness and “brain fog” caused by pain meds. I realize you probably have a long-standing relationship with your doctor, but I highly recommend you get a second opinion.
    Do start taking Vitamin B12. It can help the nerves partially regenerate and has been known to completely eliminate pain in some people. Neuropathy runs in my husband’s family. He fought those burning, stabbing pains for years … until his GP told him to start taking B12. It took about 2 months to take full effect, but he now has no pains. I’ve been a diabetic for over 40 years and used to have those pains sporadically. Taking B12 not only eliminated my pains, but improved the neural conductivity in my legs. The recommended dosage is 600 mg per day, but divide that into 3 doses of 200 mg. I don’t know how effective this treatment will be for you, as it appears you have an advanced case, but it will help. Be patient with it, as it takes time to take full effect. If nothing else, it can’t hurt, so you might as well give it a try.
    Please know I understand how bad neuropathic pain is. I’m not sure anyone who does not have it can really understand the severity of the pain and the fact that one stabbing pain in the foot can literally stop you and make it impossible to do anything or to think about anything else. Hang in there. Please try the B12, and please get a second opinion. Ideally, you should check with your doctor before starting to take B12; however, I don’t anticipate that your doc will give you a positive response. I’m sorry!! Please know you’re not alone and that there are treatments that will help control and alleviate your pain. God bless!

    October 16, 2009 9:38 pm | #1
  2. goodwork

    Have you tried any of the medications for neuropathy? Like neurontin and Lyrica? They help some. But keeping your blood sugar under control and in a normal range is the best way to help. If you are that far along in your neuropathy, you may have permanent damage and can’t be helped that much. Just try to keep it from going any further with good diet and exercise.

    October 16, 2009 9:55 pm | #2
  3. db2byl

    You should strictly control your blood sugar 24 h in a day, 7 days in a week.
    Whether or not you have a medical condition, eat a healthy diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. The best food sources of vitamin B-12 are meats, fish, eggs, low-fat dairy foods and fortified cereals. If you’re a strict vegetarian, fortified cereals are a good source of vitamin B-12 for you, but you may also want to talk to your doctor about B-12 supplements.
    The following suggestions can help you manage peripheral neuropathy:
    * Take care of your feet, especially if you have diabetes. Check your feet daily for signs of blisters, cuts or calluses. Tight shoes and socks can worsen pain and tingling and may lead to sores that won’t heal. Wear soft, loose cotton socks and padded shoes. You can use a semicircular hoop, which is available in medical supply stores, to keep bedcovers off hot or sensitive feet.
    * Exercise. Ask your doctor about an exercise routine that’s right for you. Regular exercise may reduce neuropathy pain and can help control blood sugar levels.
    * Quit smoking. Cigarette smoking can affect circulation, increasing the risk of foot problems and possibly amputation.
    * Eat healthy meals. If you’re at high risk of neuropathy or have a chronic medical condition, healthy eating is especially important. Emphasize low-fat meats and dairy products and include lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. Drink alcohol in moderation.
    * Massage your hands and feet, or have someone massage them for you. Massage helps improve circulation, stimulates nerves and may temporarily relieve pain.
    * Avoid prolonged pressure. Don’t keep your knees crossed or lean on your elbows for long periods of time. Doing so may cause new nerve damage.
    Please note that I am not a medical professional.
    Please see the web pages for Diabetic neuropathy.

    October 16, 2009 10:31 pm | #3
  4. gangadharan nair

    I am a type 2 diabetic and have recently been experiencing the tingling and sharp shooting pains in my feet/hands too.
    There is a brand new medication out now for neuropathy, but the name is escaping me at the moment. I had planned on asking a doc about when I made an appt.
    Ask your doc about the new drug out now.
    I feel your misery.

    October 16, 2009 10:57 pm | #4
  5. Udisplea

    pls your see ur doctor asap….

    October 16, 2009 11:37 pm | #5
  6. Dan O

    plz be strong….
    you can do it

    October 17, 2009 12:26 am | #6
  7. jenmae

    Exercise properly and diet. I have Peripheral Neuropathy in both legs and arms. I take Gabapentin. Two tablets twice a day. Those help. Unfortunately that’s all you can expect. The nerves are dying. I also take pain meds.

    October 17, 2009 1:16 am | #7