Neuropathy treatment: natural wave

The options for effectively managing neuropathy are limited, often leading patients down a path of trying various medications with varying success and side effects.

That’s why the authors of a new study published in the Journal of Pain decided to explore a non-invasive, drug-free approach to alleviating neuropathy symptoms.

And the results were quite amazing.

They picked a wearable device that uses transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to target pain in the legs and feet, typical of neuropathy.

The trial was conducted across six sites and involved 142 participants with an average age of 63. Over 90% of them completed the study, demonstrating high adherence to the treatment.

Results were promising, especially for those experiencing painful symptoms.

1. No significant effects were observed for numbness or tingling.

2. Hot/burning pain declined by 1.37 points on a 10-point scale.

3. There was a 1.21-point reduction in sharp/shooting pain on the same scale.

4. Cramping declined by 1.35 points.

The researchers called this an exploratory trial that should still be confirmed by larger future studies. But it is very promising that TENS therapy might work for those struggling with painful neuropathy, especially because it is convenient and doesn’t interfere with other treatments.

Many TENS devices are already approved by the FDA for the treatment of other conditions like fibromyalgia. That’s why they are considered to be safe and are available for sale to the general public.

However, if you are considering it, you should first talk to your doctor. These devices have a recommended maximum usage per day, and they should definitely be avoided if you have a pacemaker or epilepsy.

So, why do these devices work?

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation uses low-voltage electrical currents to manage pain in two ways.

Firstly, the electrical pulses seem to interfere with the transmission of pain signals along nerve pathways. This stops the communication between the source of pain and your brain, meaning that you don’t feel it.

Secondly, researchers believe that it increases your body’s production of endorphins. Endorphins are natural painkillers made by your central nervous system.

The device works with sticky pads with electrodes that you stick to your skin. You can then adjust the intensity of the stimulation on the unit to which the electrodes attach.

Although TENS devices can ease neuropathy pain, they do not eliminate it. To do that, you need to take a few all-natural steps explained here…