Diabetic neuropathies—the problems caused by the damage diabetes does to nerves—eventually cause pain in 60 to 70% of people with diabetes. There are plenty of traditional medical treatments and prescription medications available for treating neuropathy and diabetic pain. Many of the medications are effective, but come with annoying side effects.
Researchers are looking into natural cures, herbal remedies, folk medicine, and even some new technological advancements as ways of safely curing diabetic pain without prescription medication.
Have a look at these effective pain solutions.
1. Capsaicin
Capsaicin is the component of peppers that make them taste “spicy.” It’s also a well-known cure for the symptoms of painful diabetic neuropathy.
One study published in Advances in Therapy details the use of two different types of pain relievers for people with diabetes-related pain[1].
One group of study participants were given oral amitriptyline—a standard medical prescription for neuropathy. The other group applied capsaicin topically.
The study concluded that “capsaicin is an equally effective but considerably safe alternative.”
Capsaicin is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can treat a number of disorders and diseases, including many of the root causes of diabetes[2]. If you aren’t already making it a part of your diet, you need to consider it. Even if you don’t like spicy foods, topical creams are available that can quickly relieve pain.
2. Acupuncture
In a recent study of acupuncture as a treatment for diabetic neuropathy, 77% of study participants experienced pain relief from acupuncture treatments and 21% saw their pain completely go away[3].
All patients completed the study without experiencing side effects. Researchers admit that they don’t understand the “mechanism of action,” but nevertheless, acupuncture is an effective way to manage diabetic pain over the long-term.
Having needles strategically placed in your body to reduce pain might look odd, but it is actually surprisingly effective and painless.
3. Evening Primrose Oil
Also called EPO, this natural remedy can help fight health problems that cause pain and inflammation. According to one study, it is “well tolerated” and doesn’t have any major adverse side effects[4].
While it can cause upset stomach and potentially headaches, scientists are starting to recognize the power EPO has to relieve the pain caused by diabetic neuropathy, arthritis and several other disorders.
Doctor’s haven’t decided on optimal dosing yet, they are awaiting “clarification in adequately powered clinical trials.”
4. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Alpha-Lipoic Acid or ALA is an important antioxidant that can prevent specific types of cell damage in the body. You have to be careful supplementing with ALA, according to doctors it can impact blood sugar levels in diabetics. Consult with you physician before supplementing.
Evidence from clinical trials supports the idea that ALA can help treat diabetic neuropathy and the pain associated with diabetes.
A study conducted in Germany demonstrates its long-term effectiveness and hope for the future of this natural remedy in clinical settings[5].
5. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS machines are becoming popular on the retail market. These devises deliver small electrical impulses to nerves through electrodes. They were once only used to speed healing in therapeutic environments, now they are making their way into homes as powerful muscle healing tools.
A study published in The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery showed that 76% of diabetes patients who used TENS stimulation reported subjective improvement in pain levels[6]. Researchers concluded that electrotherapy is an effective pain-management solution for diabetics with nerve pain problems.