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Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staffSome people with peripheral neuropathy try alternative treatments for relief of their symptoms. Although these techniques haven't been as rigorously studied as most medications, the following therapies have shown some promise in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy:
- Acupuncture. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into various points on your body. Acupuncture may reduce symptoms in about three-quarters of people with peripheral neuropathy. However, you may need multiple acupuncture sessions before you notice improvement. Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a certified practitioner using sterile needles.
- Capsaicin. A cream containing this naturally occurring substance found in hot peppers can cause modest improvements in peripheral neuropathy symptoms. Like spicy foods, it may take some time and gradual exposure to get used to because of the hot sensation that this cream creates. Pain relief usually doesn't occur until after you get used to the heat. Doctors may suggest you use this cream in combination with other treatments.
- Alpha-lipoic acid. Used as a treatment for peripheral neuropathy in Europe for years, this antioxidant may help reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Discuss the use of alpha-lipoic acid with your doctor before using it, because alpha-lipoic acid may affect your blood sugar levels. Side effects may include stomach upset and skin rash.
- Biofeedback. During a biofeedback session, the therapist applies electrical sensors to different parts of your body to monitor your body's physiological response to your peripheral neuropathy symptoms. The biofeedback device then teaches you how your body responds using cues such as a beeping sound or flashing lights. This feedback can help you associate your body's response with certain physical functions. Once you begin to recognize your body's responses, you can learn ways to lessen the reaction through techniques such as relaxation or guided imagery.
References
- Peripheral neuropathy fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/peripheralneuropathy/detail_peripheralneuropathy.htm. Accessed Aug. 28, 2009.
- Peripheral nervous system and motor unit disorders. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/print/sec16/ch223/ch223a.html. Accessed Aug. 29, 2009.
- Ropper AH, et al. Diseases of the peripheral nerves. In: Ropper AH, et al. Adams and Victor's Principles of Neurology. 9th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Companies; 2009. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=3641268. Accessed Aug. 29, 2009.
- Feldman EL, et al. Treatment of diabetic neuropathy. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 18, 2009.
- Pai S. Peripheral neuropathy. In: Rakel D. Integrative Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/156944782-3/0/1494/62.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2954-0..50019-3--cesec2_528. Accessed Aug. 29, 2009.
- Dietary supplement fact sheet: Vitamin B12. Office of Dietary Supplements. http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminb12.asp. Accessed Aug. 28, 2009.
