Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes, affecting as many as 60% of people. It can cause a wide range of symptoms, including numbness and tingling in the feet and hands, pain, burning sensations, loss of balance, and difficulties with movement. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for diabetic neuropathy, but there are several things you can do to manage the condition and improve your quality of life. If you’re struggling with diabetic neuropathy, talk to a specialist in diabetic neuropathy Baltimore about the best treatment plan. This article looks at some of the best treatments for diabetic neuropathy.
Injection Therapy
Injection therapy is a treatment option that involves injecting medications into the affected area. There are several different injection therapies, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
One type of injection therapy is nerve blocks. This involves injecting medications near the nerves that are causing the pain. Nerve blocks can effectively reduce pain for some people, but they can also cause side effects, such as muscle weakness.
Another type of injection therapy is called intrathecal therapy. This involves injecting medications directly into the spinal cord. Intrathecal therapy effectively reduces pain for many people, but it can also cause serious side effects, such as seizures.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a type of treatment that involves exercises and activities to help improve movement, flexibility, and strength. Physical therapy can be helpful for people with diabetic neuropathy as it can improve balance and mobility.
Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist if you struggle with diabetic neuropathy. The therapist will create a treatment plan specifically for you based on your needs and goals. Some common exercises and activities used in physical therapy include:
- Exercises to improve balance and coordination
- Exercises to improve strength and flexibility
- Walking and other exercises to improve mobility
- Aquatic therapy, which involves exercising in a pool
Medications
You can use several medications to treat diabetic neuropathy. The type of medication your doctor prescribes will depend on the cause of your neuropathy and the severity of your symptoms.
Some common medications used to treat diabetic neuropathy include:
- Analgesics, which help reduce pain
- Anti-seizure medications which help control seizures caused by neuropathy
- Antidepressants, can help improve symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling
- Topical medications, which are applied directly to the skin
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be recommended to treat diabetic neuropathy. Several different surgical procedures can be used, depending on the cause and severity of your neuropathy.
One type of surgery is called a rhizotomy. This involves cutting the nerves that are causing pain. This surgery can effectively reduce pain for some people, but it can also cause side effects, such as muscle weakness.
Another type of surgery is called peripheral nerve decompression. This involves removing any excess tissue or bone that is compressing the nerves. This surgery can help reduce pain for some people, but it can also be risky and may not be effective for everyone.
In summary, there are several different treatments available for diabetic neuropathy. Common options include injection therapy, physical therapy, medications, and surgery. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for you.
