The following presents an overview of current integrative medical approach to treating neuropathy

1. Diet

1. Follow the recommendations for Diet to Reduce Inflammation.
2. If you have diabetes, maintenance of blood sugars in the normal range is important.
3. Avoidance of pesticides is important. Preferred is using organic fruits and vegetables; next is careful washing or removal of skins/rinds.

2. Supplements

1. Daily multivitamin with minerals
2. B complex vitamins play an important role. Thiamine (vitamin B1), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), and cobalamine (vitamin B12) along with folate should be in this, but too much pyridoxine can aggravate neuropathy (take 100mg to 200 mg daily).
3. Natural vitamin E has been shown to improve nerve conduction velocity measurements. 400 IU of a natural mixed vitamin E is recommended.
4. Alpha-lipoic acid works in mitochondria to improve energy function and has been shown to reduce symptoms. Usual starting dosage and maintenance dosage is 200 to 400mg daily. A dose of 1000mg to 1800 mg daily can reduce have effects within one month.
5. Omega 3 oils (fish oils) have an anti-inflammatory effect and DHA is important in nerve function and repair.

3. Environmental factors

1. Avoid aggravating toxins including organophosphates (insecticides/pesticides) and heavy metals.
2. Avoid medications including isoniazid, metronidazole, nitrofurantoin, phenytoin, and some chemotherapy agents.

4. Exercise

1. Regular aerobic exercise is important. Walking or swimming can probably be done by most patients and if symptoms don’t prevent it, dancing, gymnastics and other sports activities are good for treatment.
2. Exercises that improve flexibility (especially of the spine) are recommended. Yoga and tai-chi are excellent.

5. Medications

1. Anticonvulsants, primarily neurontin and Lyrica.
2. Tricyclic antidepressants, usually amitriptyline.
3. Capsaicin topical cream.
4. Anti-inflammatory medications, over the counter ibuprofen or naproxen, or prescription (Celebrex, Relafen, and others).

6. Other modalities

1. Physical therapy and TENS units.
2. Acupuncture.
3. Biofeedback.

Neuropathy is caused by diabetes, medications, environmental toxins, and other medical conditions. For questions and concerns and more detailed information specific for you, please make an appointment with your health provider.