• Regular exercise and physical activity can help improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
• Joint pain relief treatments, such as ice and heat, can help alleviate discomfort.
• Mindfulness meditation, journaling, creating art, and positive mantras can help reduce stress and anxiety associated with neuropathy.
• Eating leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains may help support nerve health and reduce inflammation.
Nerve function is an important part of people’s health and well-being. However, neuropathy or nerve damage can be caused by many different factors, including diabetes, autoimmune conditions, injury and trauma, and prolonged use of certain medications. Its effects can range from minor discomfort to a complete loss of feeling in the affected area. Fortunately, there are some treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy and improve nerve function. Here’s a look at some of them.
Exercise & Movement
Regular physical activity is one of the best things you can do to help manage your neuropathy. Exercise helps improve circulation while strengthening muscles and bones. It also helps reduce inflammation and increases endorphin production—the body’s “feel-good” hormones.
This can help ease pain associated with neuropathy. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga are also great options for people with nerve damage.
If possible, finding activities you enjoy and will do regularly is important. This can either be done at home or in a group setting with an exercise class.
Joint Pain Relief Treatments
Joint pain is a common symptom of neuropathy. Fortunately, there are some effective joint pain relief treatments that can help ease the discomfort associated with this condition.
Ice and heat are two of the most popular treatment methods for people with neuropathy. Applying ice can reduce inflammation, while applying heat helps relax muscles and relieves tension in joints.
There are also specific injections and topical medications available that can help reduce joint pain. It’s important to talk to your doctor before trying any of these treatments to make sure that they’re appropriate for your condition.
Mental Health Practices
It is important to remember that mental health plays a role in managing your neuropathy symptoms as well as your overall health. Taking time out for yourself each day will not only help manage your symptoms but also bring balance back into your life. Try practicing the following self-care activities:
Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation is an effective practice for managing neuropathy symptoms, as it can help reduce stress and anxiety. This type of meditation involves focusing on the present moment, allowing you to be more aware of your feelings and sensations.
Research has shown that mindfulness can decrease pain, fatigue, and depression and even improve sleep quality. Additionally, it helps to increase self-awareness and can help you better manage your symptoms.
Journaling
Journaling is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings in a safe space. This can help give you clarity on what you are feeling, as well as provide insight into how you’re coping with neuropathy. You don’t have to write every day; just try to make it a habit several times per week.
Creating positive mantras is another great way to help manage the emotional aspect of neuropathy. Writing down positive statements and repeating them throughout the day can provide much-needed encouragement and motivation.
Creating Art
Art is a great way to express yourself and find creative outlets for managing your neuropathy symptoms. Whether it’s drawing, painting, or sculpting, engaging in artistic activities can help you better understand your emotions and gain new perspectives.
It can also be a great distraction from the pain associated with this condition and provide an outlet for releasing stress and extreme emotions.
Dietary Changes
One way to cope with neuropathy naturally is through dietary changes. Avoiding processed foods will decrease inflammation throughout the body, which may cause additional nerve discomfort. Additionally, here are a few types of food you should take note of:
Leafy Green Vegetables
Vegetables, like kale, spinach, and other greens, are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can help support nerve health. These nutritious foods are also rich in antioxidants, which may help protect against further damage to nerves caused by free radical damage. Eating leafy greens regularly may also reduce inflammation throughout the body, as well as provide a boost of energy.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for proper nerve function and health. Eating foods high in omega-3s, such as wild-caught fish, walnuts, flaxseed oil, and chia seeds, can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can help with the pain associated with neuropathy and improve nerve function.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are excellent sources of B vitamins, which are necessary for nerve health. Additionally, they can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation throughout the body. Try to incorporate whole grains into your diet regularly, such as quinoa, oats, brown rice, and millet.
The effects of neuropathy can interfere with a person’s daily life, but there are ways one can cope naturally. Regular exercise combined with mental health practices, joint pain relief treatments, and dietary changes may be beneficial for reducing pain associated with nerve damage over time. Keeping your body healthy means taking care of both your physical and mental wellness for long-term success.
