If your senior loved one suffers from peripheral neuropathy, you don’t need the definition. You understand the sharp, jabbing pain associated with this disease; the numbness and tingling that spreads from the feet or hands and into the legs or arms; the discomfort your parent feels just from the brush of the bedsheet across their foot; the muscle weakness and the fear of falling.
Fortunately, there are alternative therapies that may prove effective in producing some relief for your senior parent.
What Causes Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by a complication of diabetes or from the side effects of chemotherapy.
Peripheral neuropathy can also be caused by:
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Autoimmune disorders
- Trauma
- Tumors
It is often treated with medication, but the side effects can be almost as serious as the disease they are attempting to minimize.
Some of these side effects can include:
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Headaches
5 Home Remedies & Natural Treatments for Peripheral Neuropathy
You will want to check with your parent’s primary health care provider before starting one of these options. As with other medications—supplements, herbal remedies, and over-the-counter drugs can interact with other medicines that your parent may be taking.
1. Supplements
Dr. Stengler, ND, suggests the following supplements:
- Alpha lipoic acid, a potent antioxidant
- Vitamin B complex, E, and C
- Selenium
- Pycnogenol, an antioxidant derived from pine bark
- Evening primrose oil and omega-3 fatty acid, both with anti-inflammatory properties, have been shown to decrease the numbness, burning, and tingling of neuropathy
2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is most effective when started at the onset of symptoms.
3. Weight Loss
It’s important to help your parent lose weight, if necessary. Added pressure on the feet and legs only aggravates the condition. Additional suggestions are finding soft leather shoes.
4. Healthy Lifestyle
Ensure a healthy diet and exercise program, reduce exposure to toxins and limit alcohol intake. If your parent smokes, they need to quit.
Help them stay hydrated and stress free by keeping a glass of water by their side and creating a calm, relaxing environment in their home.
5. Ointments
Topical ointments containing capsaicin, a substance derived from cayenne peppers, have been found to be beneficial for some people and irritating for others. Test on a small area.
Contact Care Options for Kids for Home Health Care Services
If your loved one is suffering from the effects of peripheral neuropathy, they may need assistance with the daily tasks of living. A senior care provider can accomplish this and more.
In addition to everyday activities, they can provide transportation and accompany your parent on social outings. Sometimes company and companionship are the best remedies for what ails an aging parent.
If you or an aging loved one are considering home health care services, contact the caring staff at Care Options for Kids. Call today (888) 592-5855.
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