Advances in the Treatment of Diabetic Nerve Pain

Probably you or someone you know has diabetes.  According to the American Diabetes Association, 25.8 million children and adults in the United States suffer from diabetes.  About 60 to 70% of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nervous system damage. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/diabetes-statistics/

Peripheral neuropathy begins as numbness, pain, or tingling in your feet. AGE’s disturb the nervous system in two ways. First, they attack the nerve itself, hindering its ability to transport signals. Secondly, they stiffen arteries and effectively reduce blood flow and the oxygen required to allow nerve cells to function properly. Peripheral neuropathy is extremely dangerous to diabetics as lack of sensation can, over time, transform a small cut on the bottom of your foot into a large ulcer.

The good news is that recent scientific advancements have been shown to restore nerve function without the side effects commonly associated with prescriptions drugs. Medical foods are specially formulated dietary supplements that can provide the unique nutritional needs for a variety of ailments. Specifically for peripheral neuropathy, NeuRemedy and Metanx are available through your local podiatrist to increase nerve function.

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an important source of nutrients for nerve cells, and many diabetics tend to be depleted of this vitamin. Thiamine is naturally found in certain grains and beans but is easily lost through the process of cooking. Also, over the counter thiamine supplements are water soluble and cannot be stored in the body.  NeuRemedy contains Benfotiamine, a fat soluble, bioactive form of thiamine that is readily absorbed and not flushed out. Due to being fat soluble, it can accomplish what water soluble thiamine cannot. Once absorbed, NeuRemedy provides nutrients to diseased nerves.

While NeuRemedy increases the delivery of nutrients to nerve cells, Metanx resolves decreased blood flow. It increases blood flow to nerves. Metanx provides the extra kick needed to open up blood vessels that have become stiffened by diabetes. Metanx also regulates levels of homocysteine. High levels of homocysteine have been correlated with coronary artery disease.

Neuremedy and Metanx can be taken together and alongside other commonly prescribed medications for peripheral neuropathy (such as Neurontin (gabapentin), Lyrica, and Cymbalta). While these medications can alleviate pain, only Neuremedy and Metanx can actively restore function without side effects. If you have neuropathy and would like to see how Neuremedy and Metanx can work for you, call for a consultation with Dr. Mark Green at Kansas City Foot and Ankle at 816-943-1111 today.  We have a variety of appointment times to fit your busy schedule.  Appointments can also be made online.