If you’re living with diabetic neuropathy you know how painful it can be. The condition is a complication of diabetes that damages nerves, especially those in your feet and toes. It can also lead to serious problems, such as foot ulcers, infections and even amputation. Luckily, there are multiple treatment options from oral medication to compounded pharmacy grade creams that can make a huge difference in your pain relief.

To diagnose neuropathy, your healthcare professional will take a complete medical history and ask about symptoms. You’ll undergo a neurological exam, which includes checking your tendon reflexes and muscle strength and tone, as well as your ability to feel touch, vibration, heat and cold. Your healthcare professional may also order blood tests to check your vitamin levels and for signs of inflammation or metabolic problems that can cause neuropathy. Imaging tests such as a CT or an MRI can look for herniated disks, bone abnormalities or other problems that might cause pain.

Soothing Sensations: Exploring Neuropathy Creams for Relief

Topical analgesics such as a neuropathy cream containing lidocaine or capsaicin can provide pain relief. These work by blocking pain receptors in your skin. Some creams also stimulate pain receptors to create a burning sensation, which then reduces the transmission of pain signals. Other topical treatments include alpha-lipoic acid and amino acids, such as acetyl-L-carnitine. However, research is limited and these treatments should only be used under a doctor’s supervision.