Caused by nerve damage due to blood sugar that's too high, diabetic neuropathy can affect your extremities or even your intestines. Finding a way to deal with the discomfort this problem can cause becomes a driving force.
You may not be able to cure the diabetes, but you may be able to help control and treat your diabetic nerve pain through the use of some simple home remedies. Here are 6+ ways to help you find relief.
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1. Manage blood sugar. One of the biggest things you can do to help reduce your diabetic nerve pain, according to WebMD, is to keep your blood sugar in the healthy range. Watch what you eat and stay on top of your medicines. Check in regularly with your doctor.
2. Capsaicin cream. According to Healthline some people find that using capsaicin cream helps by blocking the pain receptors in the nerves. Studies haven't showed that it actually works, but many say they find relief.
3. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). The Mayo Clinic shares that TENS therapy can "help prevent pain signals from reaching your brain." Since not every patient finds this works, you need to talk with your doctor before trying it.
4. Soak in a warm tub. If you need instant relief, WebMD says to try soaking in a warm tub. The heat helps with the circulation and is relaxing.
5. Acupuncture. If needles don't bother you, the Mayo Clinic recommends trying acupuncture for relief. It does point out that the relief is generally not instantaneous and may require multiple treatments. The advantage is that no side effects are generally associated with it.
6. Exercise. Exercising for 30 minutes five days a week improves the blood flow to your extremities and your heart function, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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7. Relax. According to WebMD, diabetic nerve pain is "associated with anxiety and depression." To help your body handle the stress and minimize your pain, finding ways to relax can be important. Get a massage, try deep breathing or listening to relaxing music.
You don't have to just throwing up your hands in defeat. Fight back against your nerve pain.