Damage to the peripheral nerves can affect their signaling, resulting in various painful or otherwise unusual sensations, known as peripheral neuropathy. Lifetyle changes, and addressing the underlying cause can help treat it.

The peripheral nerves send information to and from the brain and spinal cord.

People with peripheral neuropathy may experience painful tingling, hot and cold sensations, or shooting pains in the affected area.

As neuropathy often affects the hands and feet, the symptoms may begin in these areas. However, peripheral nerves are all over the body, so it is possible to experience symptoms elsewhere and have various symptoms in multiple locations.

Certain natural treatments may help ease some of the symptoms. Additionally, in some cases, natural interventions may help prevent further nerve damage.

Below, find out about seven of these natural treatments and more information about the condition.

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Exercise promotes muscle tone and may reduce some symptoms of neuropathy.

Exercise can also help combat several health issues that cause neuropathy. For example, diabetes can lead to peripheral neuropathy. Exercise helps the body manage blood sugar levels, which may reduce the risk of diabetes and its complications.

In addition, exercise reduces pressure on peripheral blood vessels, which may benefit people at risk of neuropathy.

Diabetes is a leading cause of peripheral neuropathy. Dietary changes that lower a person’s blood sugar levels can ease symptoms of neuropathy or potentially prevent it.

A diet rich in fiber and low in simple carbohydrates can prevent blood sugar spikes. Additionally, avoiding the following foods may help:

  • white bread products, including pasta
  • sweets
  • processed snacks

Other dietary changes may benefit people with peripheral neuropathy, whether or not they have diabetes. This can include reducing or eliminating alcohol intake.

Smoking is a risk factor for peripheral neuropathy. This is because it narrows and damages peripheral blood vessels and affects oxygen supply to peripheral nerves.

It can also worsen symptoms of this nerve damage, even when another condition or lifestyle factor is the primary cause of the neuropathy.

Quitting smoking can improve blood flow, leading to healthier blood vessels.

Learn more about how to quit smoking.

A number of vitamins and supplements may support nerve health and ease the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

These include:

  • B-complex vitamins: B12 deficiency can damage the protective coating of nerves, while a B9 deficiency can also impair nerve health. A 2020 case report demonstrates that B12 supplementation may help reverse neurological complications.
  • Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant, and some research suggests that it may help with the incidence and symptoms of chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
  • Acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC): Some research indicates that ALC has analgesic properties and can help manage acute and chronic pain relating to peripheral neuropathy.
  • Alpha-lipoic acid: Alpha-lipoic acid is a bioactive molecule with antioxidant properties. It could have potential as a complementary therapy for diabetes-associated neuropathy, though more research is necessary.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may potentially benefit people with diabetic neuropathy. It occurs in fish oil.
  • N-acetylcysteine (NAC): This antioxidant could reduce sensations of pain. A 2024 study involving 102 people found NAC to be well-tolerated and safe in treating neuropathy relating to diabetes.
  • Magnesium and calcium: Some research indicates a possible link between magnesium and healthy peripheral nerve function. Further studies are necessary to determine the effectiveness of magnesium and calcium supplements for nerve function.

Relaxation techniques may help a person better manage pain from neuropathy. Deep breathing, meditation, and progressive relaxation may offer some relief.

Some relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi, and blend stretching, may reduce stress and improve posture, easing some of the painful effects of neuropathy.

Taking a warm bath can be relaxing and help manage pain from neuropathy. A 2020 study notes that warm saltwater baths can significantly reduce pain relating to diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

When running a bath, a person needs to ensure the water is not too hot.

Some people with peripheral neuropathy try alternative medicine, including acupuncture, chiropractic techniques, and energy-based modalities, such as reiki.

However, researchers have yet to study these methods thoroughly. Currently, little compelling evidence suggests that they work.

To get the most out of alternative medicine, a person can try pairing it with traditional treatments, such as medication and exercise.

Many lifestyle changes that can ease symptoms of peripheral neuropathy can also prevent it. These include exercise, eating a varied and nutritious diet, and maintaining a moderate body weight.

Some other strategies that may help include:

  • receiving treatment for medical conditions, such as diabetes, that can cause neuropathy
  • controlling blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medication
  • avoiding excessive alcohol intake
  • quitting smoking, if applicable

Many health issues can cause neuropathy, including:

In addition, certain medications, including some chemotherapy drugs, can lead to neuropathy.

Anyone who develops tingling, pain, numbness, or unusual sensations in the feet or hands needs to consult a doctor promptly, especially if they have diabetes.

Additionally, people need to avoid self-diagnosing or self-medicating neuropathy. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment can prevent neuropathy from worsening.

Anyone with a neuropathy diagnosis needs to contact a doctor if:

  • symptoms suddenly worsen
  • neuropathy pain becomes severe
  • pain or other symptoms spread to another area of the body
  • they have sores or injuries on their feet
  • they have swelling, a fever, or other signs of an infection

Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves. It can have multiple causes, including diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy can be frustrating, painful, and difficult to treat, but prevention is key. Anyone who has a condition linked with neuropathy should learn about ways to reduce their risk. A doctor can provide this information.

A number of natural interventions can help prevent or treat peripheral neuropathy, including maintaining a balanced, nutritious diet, exercising, and quitting or avoiding smoking.

People with peripheral neuropathy may have to try several treatments or a combination of them before finding the most effective option. A person can ask a healthcare professional about different strategies.

Most individuals with peripheral neuropathy find that lifestyle adjustments help improve symptoms.