If you have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and suffer from leg pain, you may be struggling with the symptoms of neuropathy. While maintaining a healthy blood sugar level is your primary goal in preventing the neuropathy from progressing, there are a number of treatments that have been found to help those who fight this painful condition on a daily basis. As always, consult with your physician to determine the best course of treatment for your situation. Today we’ll review the use of pain medications, dietary supplements, physical therapy and the use of bed cradles for your legs.
Treatments for Type 2 Diabetic Leg Pain
- Pain medications
- Dietary Supplements
- Physical Therapy
- Bed Cradle for your Leg
Pain Medications
Your doctor may prescribe a medication that has been approved to work with your diabetic medications to help control the pain and discomfort from neuropathy. Over the counter remedies have been found to help some, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, the prescription medications found to help many patients are Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Lyrica (pregabalin). Both compounds are known to have serious side effects and it’s important to talk to your physician about taking them with your other remedies.
Highlights:
- Cymbalta
- Lyrica, ibuprofen, acetaminophen
- Affordable if OTC
Dietary Supplements
The damage to the nerves in your legs was caused by your body chemistry being out of balance due to your diabetes. Dietary supplements may help you to regain a healthy balance and support proper blood sugar levels. Taking ALA (alpha-lipoic acid) as a supplement is currently being studied in the reduction of nerve pain and helping to regenerate nerves. The compound is naturally found in foods like carrots and broccoli, but can also be found in a pill form. Other nutrients that are thought to help are vitamin B-12, vitamin D and acetyl-L-carnitine. Acetyl-L-carnitine has been found to help reduce pain in studies but is also known to cause vomiting and interferes with prescription blood thinners.
Highlights:
- ALA supplements might regenerate nerves
- Multivitamins provide numerous benefits
- Dietary changes can help
Physical Therapy
It is thought that if you continue to use muscles and nerves damaged by diabetic neuropathy, the pain and nerve damage can be reduced. Your doctor may have you attend some physical therapy sessions to learn which exercised will help the parts of your body affected. Your safety must always be kept in mind, but taking short frequent walks maintains good circulation which promotes healthy muscle and nerve tissue. A stationary reclining bicyle may help to exercise the large leg muscles maintain movement and tone while preventing you from injuring yourself while exercising. Water therapy helps to support blood circulation while reducing further damage caused by more vigorous impact exercises. The best results are found in patients who are committed to exercising daily.
Highlights:
- Short frequent walks
- Physical therapy can help build endurance
- Water therapy can ease pain
Bed Cradles
Finally seek ways to be comfortable in your own home. Soaking your legs and feet in warm baths helps to ease aches. A comfortable power recliner can assist you in standing and sitting down, supporting good exercise habits. Cradles designed to support your legs while in bed can reduce discomfort caused by excessive pressure on sensitized tissue. They can be obtained through your medical supplier and come in a variety of designs for your comfort.
Highlights:
- Reduce pressure points in bed
- Variety of designs
- Power recliners
Conclusion
While neuropathy is a painful condition, there are steps you can take to help improve your quality of life while maintaining as much mobility as possible. Speak to your health care provider about all the options available medically, physically and homeopathically that can help you enjoy life for as long as possible.