Diabetes and nerve damage

Neuropathy treatment.

Neuropathy affects approximately 75 percent of all diabetics. It can be managed by paying close attention to your blood sugar, exercise and medication. In many cases neuropathy can be improved by controlling blood sugar and exercising regularly. Some physicians believe Neuropathy can even be reversed.

With good blood glucose management, keeping active and taking your prescribed meds will help control nerve damage. Avoiding the highs and lows of blood sugar will reduce complications. Test blood sugar regularly so you don’t have the high and lows and try to avoid the stresses in life: Stressing less makes the quality of life better and reduces blood sugar spikes and depressions.

When one begins to manage their blood sugar levels, it may be more uncomfortable because your nerves are beginning to work again. As time goes on, you will feel much better reducing the blood sugar roller coaster.

In every aspect of life exercise is important to help keep your muscles toned. Exercise is extremely important for diabetics. There is no question, you must move. One idea to begin to move more, while at a desk or sitting in a chair, do leg exercises such as lifting your legs up, stretching them out, and twirling them by the knee, hip and ankle.

Exercise helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and, prescription medications can help minimize many of your symptoms of neuropathy. There are oral treatments and topical treatments.

Michigan State University Extension feels it is also important to have good communication with your health care provider and pharmacist to make sure you are following treatment plans correctly. Always be prepared with questions and current medication lists when you go to the doctor.

For more tips on health and nutrition visit the Michigan State University Extension chronic disease page.

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