7 Natural Ways to Manage Peripheral Neuropathy

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The peripheral nervous system connects the nerves from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body including your:

- Hands
- Arms
- Feet
- Legs
- Internal organs
- Mouth - Face

These nerves work to deliver signals about various sensations back to your brain.

What is peripheral neuropathy? 

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which peripheral nerves can’t function properly since they’re damaged or destroyed. Damaged peripheral nerves may send signals of pain when there’s nothing causing pain, and vice versa, they may not signal pain when something is harming you. 

Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by the following issues:

- Infections
- Systemic diseases
- Injuries
- An inherited disorder 
The most common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are hand or foot pain, numbness, and painful tingling. 

The disorder is extremely uncomfortable but it’s treatable. Even natural treatment options can help alleviate the symptoms and manage peripheral neuropathy. Plus, some natural remedies might even help prevent further damage. Here are seven natural ways to manage peripheral neuropathy:

1. Avoid toxin overload 

Toxins tend to accumulate in your body and they can enter your body not only with foods you eat. So, you don’t necessarily have to eat toxins for them to take their toll.

Your nerve endings are extremely delicate and they need a healthy environment to stay alive, so if your body is full of toxins you may get peripheral neuropathy. 

Smoking is a huge source of toxins for your body. But even non-smokers can get toxin overload by using harsh chemicals, for instance, ammonia-based cleaners. So, you need to evaluate your environment and eliminate harsh chemicals wherever possible. Look for natural options.

2. Improve your sleep routine 

Neuropathy can cause sleep problems but there are certain methods you can try to get a better night's rest. Just try not to consume caffeine in the afternoons and evenings, avoid naps, and try to get used to sleeping and waking up at the same time. 

Sleeping with a pillow between your legs to keep your knees from touching can help alleviate pain and pressure.

3. Manage your blood glucose

There is a strong link between type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy. So, it’s essential to have your blood sugar levels under control to avoid the effects of neuropathy. 

Drinking plenty of water is a great way to control your blood glucose. Another helpful thing is limiting sodium intake and the consumption of foods with a high glycemic index. These foods contain high levels of sugar and fast carbs that provoke blood sugar spikes. Keep a food journal for a week or two to find the right diet for you.

4. Try essential oils to ease pain and inflammation 

Essential oil is an effective natural way to reduce inflammation and pain related to peripheral neuropathy. Sometimes, over-the-counter medications we usually use can have an undesired effect on our bodies and can exacerbate peripheral neuropathy. 

Many essential oils can help when it comes to lowering chronic inflammation which may, in turn, help reduce the pain and discomfort that come with peripheral neuropathy. Try using the following essential oils:

- Roman Lavender
- Chamomile
- Eucalyptus
- Rosemary
- Marjoram

5. Avoid smoking 

Smoking is a risk factor for peripheral neuropathy since it affects your cardiovascular system by narrowing and damaging your peripheral blood vessels. Quitting smoking can improve your blood flow.

6. Get regular exercise

Regular exercise is one of the best methods to combat peripheral neuropathy. Physical activity helps the body foster the growth and regeneration of nerves that have already been damaged.

A good workout stimulates muscles that can be weakened by nerve damage and promotes normal blood circulation throughout your body. Do not forget to listen to your body and exercise in as safe a manner as possible.

7. Get plenty of antioxidants 

Antioxidants are powerful little compounds that can reduce peripheral neuropathy symptoms significantly by lowering the number of free radicals in your body and preventing oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress contributes to chronic inflammation, which is one of the most common issues leading to peripheral neuropathy.

Enjoying a diet rich in antioxidants means avoiding oxidative stress and inflammation.

Antioxidants are contained in grapes, berries, nuts, and leafy green veggies, so try focusing on a diet rich in these foods that will help you improve your antioxidant intake and get rid of that inflammation.