Can neuropathy be reversed?

It depends on the cause. Neuropathy from vitamin deficiencies or medication toxicity may improve or resolve once the cause is corrected. Diabetic neuropathy can be slowed with good blood sugar control but is usually not fully reversible.

What does neuropathy pain feel like?

People often describe neuropathic pain as burning, stabbing, shooting, or like electric shocks. Some experience extreme sensitivity to touch, while others feel numbness. Symptoms are typically worse at night.

Is walking good for neuropathy?

Yes, regular walking and exercise can help manage neuropathy by improving blood flow to nerves, reducing pain, and maintaining muscle strength. Always wear proper footwear and check feet daily for injuries if you have reduced sensation.

NeurologicalICD-10: G62.9Approximately 20 million people in the United States

Peripheral Neuropathy

Also known as: Nerve Damage, Polyneuropathy, Diabetic Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves, causing weakness, numbness, and pain, typically in the hands and feet. It affects an estimated 20 million people in the United States and has more than 100 known causes, with diabetes being the most common. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying condition and relieving symptoms.

Symptoms

Numbness or reduced sensation in the hands and feet

Tingling or prickling (pins and needles) sensations

Sharp, stabbing, or burning pain

Sensitivity to touch (allodynia)

Muscle weakness

Loss of coordination and balance

Difficulty with fine motor skills

Autonomic symptoms (blood pressure changes, digestive issues, sweating abnormalities)

Causes

Diabetes mellitus (most common cause)
Vitamin deficiencies (B1, B6, B12, folate)
Alcoholism and chronic liver disease
Autoimmune diseases (Guillain-Barré syndrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Chemotherapy and other neurotoxic medications
Infections (HIV, hepatitis C, Lyme disease, shingles)

Risk Factors

Poorly controlled diabetes
Heavy alcohol consumption
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Exposure to industrial toxins or heavy metals
Family history of neuropathy
Kidney disease

Diagnosis

Neurological examination testing sensation, reflexes, and strength
Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG)
Blood tests (glucose, HbA1c, vitamin levels, thyroid function, autoimmune markers)
Nerve biopsy or skin biopsy for small fiber neuropathy
MRI if nerve compression is suspected

Treatment

Treating the underlying cause (blood sugar control, vitamin supplementation, stopping toxic medications)
Neuropathic pain medications (gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, amitriptyline)
Topical treatments (capsaicin cream, lidocaine patches)
Physical therapy to maintain strength and balance
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

Prevention

Maintain tight blood sugar control if diabetic
Limit alcohol consumption
Eat a balanced diet with adequate B vitamins
Protect against repetitive stress injuries
Avoid exposure to neurotoxic substances

When to See a Doctor

Persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands or feet
Muscle weakness interfering with daily activities
Loss of balance or frequent falls
Wounds on the feet that are slow to heal (especially with diabetes)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis

Autoimmune

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Musculoskeletal

Shingles

Infectious

Related from the Supplement Library

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)

Strong

Compound · Universal antioxidant (fat and water soluble)

Vitamin B12

Strong

Vitamin · Nervous system health and myelin formation

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)

Moderate

Amino Acid · Cognitive function and focus enhancement

Vitamin B6

Strong

Vitamin · Neurotransmitter synthesis (serotonin, dopamine, GABA)

These supplements have been studied in relation to Peripheral Neuropathy. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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