You've been diagnosed with PN; now what? Treatment for peripheral neuropathy is geared to managing the underlying condition causing the neuropathy. Sometimes the neruopathy will improve; sometimes it just keeps it from getting worse. One of the challenges is to find the right treatment that will relieve your symptoms.

Common treatment options include -

Pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers may help relieve mild symptoms. Prescription pain relievers may be helpful for more severe symptoms.

Anti-seizure drugs: Medications oirginally developed to treat epilepsy, such as gabapentin (Neurontin), pregabalin (Lyrica), topiramate (Topamax) and phyntoin (Dilantin) are often used to treat nerve pain.

Lidocaine patches and topical gels or creams: Topical lidocaine products, or products containing lidocaine, may be applied where hypersensitivity to light touch is most problematic.

Certain antidepressants: Antidepressants developed to relieve pain by altering the chemical processes in your brain and spinal cord, such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and others, can be used to relieve the pain of neuropathy.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) - Gentle electric current delivered through adhesive electrodes on the skin may improve symptoms. This treatment is applied several times a day.

Alternative treatments may also be used to relieve pain symptoms:

Acupuncture. Multiple sessions may be needed before improvement is noticed but this may help reduce symptoms.

Biofeedback. Practicing techniques such as relaxation and guided imagery while monitoring your response can help you deal with teh stress of chronic pain.

Massage. Massage helps improve circulation, stimulates nerves and may temporarily relieve pain.

Early treatment of peripheral neuropathy offers the best chance of preventing further damage and successfully treating symptoms. See your doctor to learn more about which neuropathy treatments are right for you.  

Source: HealthLetter/MayoClinic