Living With Neuropathy (And What You Can Do About It)

About 20 million Americans have some form of neuropathy or nerve damage. The most common cause is untreated diabetes, but various other conditions can also increase the risk. The good news is that neuropathy symptoms can be managed, regardless of the type.  

At Twin Creeks Orthopedics & Sports Injury Clinic in Allen, Texas, the expert team specializes in neuropathy treatment. Keep reading for helpful tips on managing symptoms to continue living your best life. 

3 tips for living with neuropathy

Neuropathy varies from person to person. For some people, the condition causes severe pain and limitations, but for others, it’s more manageable. No matter where you fall on this spectrum, a three-pronged approach can significantly improve your quality of life. 

1. Lifestyle changes

The nerve damage associated with neuropathy can’t be reversed, but bad habits can worsen the condition. Fortunately, healthy lifestyle changes can help prevent this from happening and reduce symptoms while you’re at it. 

Although needs vary between patients, everyone can benefit from eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol.

For instance, consuming a diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats can help support nerve function, reduce inflammation, and keep your blood sugar within the optimal range, which is particularly beneficial if you have diabetic neuropathy.

Similarly, exercising regularly improves circulation, builds muscle, and supports balance, which is often affected by neuropathy. And, because tobacco and alcohol both worsen nerve damage, avoiding these substances altogether makes common sense.

2. Medical treatments

Lifestyle changes are an important part of neuropathy treatment, but they may not be enough to relieve pain or prevent more severe side effects. Thankfully, medicine has come a long way over the last few decades, offering numerous safe and effective interventions. 

Although no two treatment plans are identical, we commonly recommend:

• Medications like gabapentin and pregabalin to reduce nerve pain
• Physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and balance
• Complementary therapies, like acupuncture and massage
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to ease pain

Additionally, we often partner with medical specialists, such as podiatrists and wound care experts. Because neuropathy commonly affects the feet and increases the risk of slow-healing ulcers, this expertise reduces the risk of complications and ensures comprehensive care for neuropathy patients.

3. Routine checkups and monitoring

The above treatments often ease neuropathy symptoms, like pain, numbness, and muscle weakness, but they must be monitored regularly to prevent further nerve damage. Our expert team provides flexible scheduling and same-day appointments, Monday through Friday, to support you and your nervous system. We typically recommend monthly check-ins but may recommend more frequent visits, depending on your needs. 

Don’t wait to schedule neuropathy treatment!

Living with neuropathy can be challenging, but you don’t have to suffer. With a personalized care plan, you can live an active, pain-free life and participate in the activities you love. Contact us today to start your treatment journey. Call (469) 342-3383 or book online.