Articles
by Dr. Bassam Damaj, PhD. | October 09, 2023 | 3 min read
A Closer Look at Sensory Neuropathy:
Sensory neuropathy refers to the damage sustained by nerves responsible for our senses, such as touch, temperature, and pain perception. These nerves transmit messages from our skin, bones, and muscles to our brain. While sensory neuropathy can manifest in various parts of the body, it predominantly affects the feet, legs, hands, and arms.
One of the primary concerns with sensory neuropathy, especially for diabetes patients, is the potential loss of sensation in the feet. This numbness can be perilous, as individuals might not detect minor injuries, like stepping on a sharp object or developing a blister from ill-fitting shoes. If left untreated, these minor injuries can escalate into severe infections or ulcers. Hence, regular foot care and monitoring become paramount for those with diabetes.
Symptoms of Sensory Neuropathy:
It's worth noting that diabetic individuals face a higher risk of hospitalization due to foot ulcers than other diabetes-related complications. Additionally, neuropathy increases the likelihood of developing Charcot foot, a severe foot condition induced by diabetes.
Unraveling The Underlying Causes of Diabetic Neuropathy Pain:
Why Does Diabetic Neuropathy Hurt?
Nerves are the communication channels of our body, transmitting chemical messages to and from the brain. When these nerves suffer damage, the transmission of these messages gets disrupted, leading to altered sensations. This disruption can manifest as numbness, tingling, burning sensations, or even sharp, shooting pains. Interestingly, these sensations often intensify during nighttime. While the exact reason remains elusive, factors like evening temperature drops, accumulated daily stress, and fewer distractions might amplify the pain perception.
Primary Factors Contributing to Diabetic Neuropathy Pain:
High Blood Sugar:
Prolonged elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to neuropathy. Proper blood sugar management is crucial to prevent or mitigate this damage.
Nerve Damage:
The direct damage to nerves disrupts the transmission of sensory messages, leading to altered sensations and pain.
Poor Blood Flow:
Reduced blood circulation can deprive nerves of essential nutrients, exacerbating nerve damage and pain.
Strategies To Alleviate Diabetic Neuropathy Pain:
Blood Sugar Management:
Diabetes, characterized by elevated blood sugar levels, is the primary cause of neuropathy. Maintaining recommended blood sugar levels can prevent or delay the onset of neuropathic symptoms. Adopting a balanced diet, rich in high-fiber, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy, can help manage blood sugar effectively.
Nutritional Balance:
Ensuring adequate intake of essential nutrients, especially vitamin B12, can prevent nerve damage. Conversely, excessive vitamin B6 intake can be toxic to nerves. It's crucial to strike a balance and monitor nutrient levels regularly.
Limiting Toxins:
Certain foods, even those perceived as healthy, can contain toxins detrimental to nerve health. For instance, seafood might contain mercury, and brown rice can have high arsenic levels. Being aware of these potential contaminants and making informed dietary choices can safeguard nerve health.
Alcohol Moderation:
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to nutrient malabsorption and direct nerve damage. Limiting or avoiding alcohol can prevent or halt the progression of neuropathy.
Dendrirx - A Game-Changer In Neuropathy Management:
Dendrirx, a Health Canada-approved natural health product, offers a groundbreaking approach to managing arthritis pain and repairing connective tissue. This product is formulated to alleviate the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint pain, and pain in tendons and ligaments.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits:
Capsaicin (0.075%):
Derived from chili peppers, capsaicin provides relief from burning sensations by desensitizing sensory receptors.
L-Citrulline & L-Arginine:
These amino acids work synergistically to enhance blood flow, ensuring that nerves receive adequate nutrients.
Sweet Almond Oil:
This oil offers moisturizing benefits, keeping the skin nourished and preventing dryness.
Cinnamomum Oil:
This oil activates TRP1 channels, helping alleviate sensitivity and tingling sensations.
In Conclusion:
Understanding diabetic neuropathy pain is the first step towards effective management. By adopting a holistic approach that includes dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and innovative solutions like Dendrirx, individuals can combat neuropathy pain effectively. Remember, every individual's journey is unique, and it's essential to find a regimen tailored to one's specific needs. With the right guidance and persistence, a pain-free life is attainable