Editor: Cindy H. Melancon P.O. Box 7948 Amarillo, TX 79114-7948
806-355-2565
E-mail: CHMelancon@AOL.COM Web site:
http://www.ovarian-news.org
Unless indicated otherwise, the following descriptions and tips are summaries
contributed by readers of "CONVERSATIONS! The International Newsletter for Those
Fighting Ovarian Cancer". Some suggestions were found to be useful in dealing
with the problems caused by neuropathy. Other tips were not helpful, but I felt the
"didn't work" ideas just as important to pass along to you. Almost all of
those successful with obtaining relief used a combination of ideas.
If you have more to add, please send them to me and I'll add them to the next
revision. All of the journals cited as sources are mainstream medical journals. It is
unknown whether the research and suggestions for relief of neuropathy associated with
diabetes will work for neuropathy associated with chemotherapy. First printed 6/96.
Revised 6/98 and 6/99.
*Please note: When in doubt about the effectiveness of any treatment, always
consult with a qualified health care practitioner. The following tips are only suggestions
which have been learned through much experience. Also please remember, when dealing with
the body, there are no absolutes and there will always be exceptions to the rule because
each person has a unique body.
What is neuropathy??? Neuropathy literally means "disease of the
nerves". Neuro- refers to nerves and -pathy refers to disease or dysfunction. Some of
the symptoms of the type of neuropathy most frequently caused by chemotherapy are:
- tingling (feeling of needles and pins) and burning,
- loss of sensation to touch,
- pain in the affected areas,
- loss of positional sense (knowing where a body part is without looking), and
- loss of balance.
The most common areas of the body affected are the tips of the extremities
(fingers and toes). This sensory loss may move gradually upward in a stocking-glove type
fashion (as if you pulled a long glove on your arm or a knee-high sock on your foot and
leg). This is called peripheral neuropathy. Sometimes other areas of the body (face, back,
chest, etc) are affected. Some literature suggests than neuropathy can cause or worsen
constipation and conditions such as ileus (intestinal obstruction).
Although some of the signs of neuropathy may appear suddenly, this change in
sensation usually builds gradually and gets worse with each subsequent dose of
chemotherapy.
It is usually strongest right after a treatment but tends to lessen just before
the next treatment. The symptoms usually peak about 3-5 months after the last dose was
taken. The abnormal sensations may disappear completely or lessen only partially; they may
also involve less of the body. If neuropathy diminishes, it is a gradual process usually
requiring several months. However it may be irreversible and never diminish in intensity
or the area of body affected.
Those at highest risk for development of neuropathy are those who are taking
certain chemotherapy drugs (list follows) at:
- higher doses than usual...one source stated with Taxol, symptoms begin 7 days after
the 1st or 2nd round of higher doses (300- 350mg/m2) or after 3-7th
doses in those getting lower doses (135-250 mg/m2). In all patients, symptoms will
progress with each dose. Therefore the most significant risk factor for developing
neuropathy is dose intensity.
- more frequent intervals (example: every three weeks versus every four weeks),
- faster rates of administration of the individual dose (example: over three hours
versus over 24 hours), and
- during prolonged series of treatments (example: 24 treatments versus 6 treatments).
It is also more likely to occur in those who have previously been treated with a
neuropathy-causing drug or are taking two neuropathy inducing drugs at the same time.
Likely to worsen if neuropathy is already present or re-occur faster if it occurred in the
past.
A resource for information is The Neuropathy Association, a new non-profit patient
based organization. Their mission is to provide patient support and education, advocate
for patient's interests and promote research into cause and cure. Membership is free.
Write P.O. Box 2055, Lenox Hill Station, New York City, NY 10021 or call 800-247-6968.
Best information hidden under A "Member Services" on web site http://www.neuropathy.org . You must
register to access this info.
A general article on neuropathy can be found at http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9811/htm/neuropathy.htm
A good article on general tips for pain management can be found at http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9606/htm/painmgmt.htm
.
Another at http://www.ons.org/ons/library
and click A search for neuropathy.
What drugs used to treat ovarian cancer commonly cause neuropathy
- The inserts for the drugs are silent on the subject of prevention or relief of symptoms.
Remember these are generalities and what happens in your body may vary from a general
group. These are risks and not certainties. Each must decide what is right for ourselves
and how much quality of life we are willing to risk in trade for potentially increased
length of life.
- Mead Johnson's drug insert on Taxol (paclitaxel) states "Although the
occurrence of peripheral neuropathy is frequent, the development of severe symptomatology
is unusual and requires a dose reduction of 20% for all subsequent course of Taxol."
In 402 women on Taxol, 62% had mild neuropathy while 4% had severe symptoms which tended
to increase as the dose increased. (What was meant by mild and severe was not described.)
- Bristol-Myers Squibb drug insert on Cisplatin (Platinol) states neuropathies
usually occur after prolonged therapy (after 4-7 months), but have been reported after a
single dose. Therapy should be stopped when the symptoms are first observed. It may be
more severe in those who are getting higher doses or more frequently than recommended. It
may be irreversible.
- Bristol-Myers Squibb drug insert on Carboplatin (Paraplatin) states 4% may
experience peripheral neuropathy or in 6% if previously pre-treated. It is mild in 16% in
comparison to 42% of those on Cisplatin therapy. When treated with carboplatin, those over
65 years and/or those "previously treated with cisplatin appear to have an increased
risk" and "prolonged treatment, particularly in cisplatin pre-treated patients,
may result in cumulative" neuropathy. In 70% of those with cisplatin-caused
pre-existing neuropathy, there was no worsening.
- SmithKline Beecham drug insert on Topotecan (Hycamtin) states "A paresthesia
occurred in 9% of patients but was generally Grade 1". Paresthesia means numbness,
prickling, or tingling, heightened sensitivity.
- U.S. Bioscience drug insert on Hexalen (hexamethylmelamine) states peripheral
neuropathy is more likely to occur in those taking continuous high dose daily Hexalen than
in those taking lower doses or on an intermittent schedule. It may worsen cisplatin
related neuropathy. Neurologic toxicity has been reported to be reversible when Hexlen is
stopped. Randomized trials of Hexlen and cisplatin plus or minus pyridoxine significantly
reduced neurotoxicity but it adversely affected response duration suggesting that
pyridoxine should not be given with hexalen and/or cisplatin. (Cancer Investigator,
10(1): 1-9, 1992)
- Rhone-Poulenc Rorer drug insert on Taxotere (docetaxel) states "A severe
neurosensory symptoms (paresthesia, dysesthesia, pain) were observed among 7%. When these
occur dosage must be adjusted. If symptoms persist, treatment should be discontinued.
Spontaneous reversal of symptoms within a median of 9 weeks from onset (range 0 to 106
weeks)."
- GlaxoWellcome's drug insert on Navelbine (vinorelbine) states "A mild to
moderate paresthesia and hyperthesia were the most frequently reported neurologic
toxicities. Loss of deep tendon reflexes occurred in less than 5% of the patients. The
development of severe peripheral neuropathy was infrequent 91%) and generally
reversible." Patients with a prior history or pre-existing neuropathy, regardless of
etiology, should be monitored for new or worsening...neuropathy.
Is there anything which may prevent the development of neuropathy??? slow
its progress or spread???
- Prevention or reduction of the neurotoxicity which is responsible for neuropathy was
achieved by those who took glutamate chloride 680 mg three times a day taken by mouth
every day the entire course of chemotherapy with vincristine sulfate (Oncovin). There were
no side effects from the glutamate chloride. (Amer.J.Med.1988, 84:1016-1022) Note:
Although this result occurred with a different chemo than the ones used for ovarian
cancer, the mechanism by which chemo causes neuropathy may possibly be the same.
Glutamate chloride or glutamic acid can be purchased very inexpensively at health food
stores. This is a routine order by an oncologist that one woman knows.
- Another study found a higher dose of Taxol infused over 3 hours was just as safe and
effective as 24 hours infusions. However the shorter duration was also associated with
more neuropathy. (J.Clin.Oncol. 1994(12):2654-66)
- Taxol given over a shorter time period causes more neuropathy which increases when
cisplatin is added. One way to decrease the incidence of neuropathy is to substitute
carboplatin for the cisplatin. (Semin.Oncol. 1996;23 (6 supp 15): 2-4)
- Treatment with amifostine (Ethyol) just before administration of cytoxin and
cisplatin has been found to protect a wide variety of normal tissue (liver, kidney,
nerves) from serious cumulative toxicity. The action of the chemo on cancer was not
effected. (J.Clin.Oncol. July 1996; 14(7):2101-2112) Nurses must carefully monitor
blood pressure as Ethyol may cause low blood pressure. Literature states that this is
relieved if the patient lies flat during and for about 30 minutes after Ethyol is given.
One said her doc told her it can cause increased nausea and vomiting which he controlled
it with medication. She admits the nausea is no fun, but certainly more temporary than
neuropathy.
- For one woman, the first round of chemo affected her hands to the point where most
dexterity and strength was gone and her feet to the point of needing a walker to get
around. During a recurrence and treatment with the same chemo drugs, adding amifostine
(Ethyol) has not only prevented the worsening of neuropathy but also improved the symptoms
left over from the first time. She can walk alone, drive a car alone, ties her own shoe
laces, and uses a knife (in the kitchen, of course).
- Another's physician is giving her an Ethyol treatment once weekly after all of
her chemo treatments were completed in order to reduce neuropathy and perhaps stop its
progession. She reports her doctor prescribes the following: 1 liter of saline is given
over 90 minutes, then add to IV Kytril 1 mg, Decadron 20 mg, Pepsid 20 mg, and Benadryl 50
mg just before adding Ethyol 500 mg/mg2 over 15 min. Blood pressure is checked frequently
and the patient should lay down during the ethyol infusion and for 15 minutes afterwards
as it tends to lower blood pressure. When she got up too soon, she had some nausea but
that was relieved by Benadryl and Phenergan.
- Here are other techniques prescribed by physicians to prevent neuropathy and
woman tested:
- 200 mg vitamin B-6 daily divided into two doses.
- Decadron for two days after chemo along with Prednisone for five days after chemo.
- Lower chemotherapy doses might possibly be just as effective for treatment but produce
fewer side effects.
- Taking chemotherapy at lower doses and/or over longer periods of time.
- Adequate hydration (lots of regular IV fluids) immediately before and immediately after
chemo.
- Drinking gallons and gallons of fluids for the first few days after taking chemo.
- If each drug can cause neuropathy, then using them together may cause it to occur sooner
or more severely. Instead it may be possible to use a combination in which only one drug
has the potential to cause neuropathy.
- Carboplatin is generally as effective as cisplatin. Carboplatin is less toxic to the
nerves, but it causes more bone marrow depression.
Are there any
medicines which may relieve the pain??? Physician prescribed, woman tested!
Tricyclic anti-depressants
such as Elavil (amitriptyline), Pamelor (nortriptyline), Triavil
(perphenazine-amitriptyline), Norpramin (desipramine), and Tofranil (imipramine) are
sometimes used for neuropathy because they have pain reducing effects along with mood
alteration and better sleep. They work by correcting chemical imbalances at the
neurotransmitters (nerve senders), which are key components of the central pathways for
pain. Each drug in this group affects neurotransmitters differently so each should be
tried. Each has different side effects. Usually the dose is begun at lower levels and
gradually increased to beneficial levels of pain relief. This process may require up to
4-6 weeks for noticeable results and will require cooperation of a physician who is
willing to work with you, trying different dosages and drugs. Stopping any of these drugs
suddenly may produce unpleasant side effects so dose is usually gradually decreased over
two weeks (AJN, 2/95, p.23-4)
A small dose of Elavil (amitriptyline) at bed time will help with the
pain and will lessen the effects of sleepiness during the day. Amitriptyline is the
generic form and therefore cheaper (30 tablets costs about $4). It comes in different
doses so try each until you find one that works. Start at lowest dose, working up to
effective dose. One mentioned that 125 mg a day worked well for her. At higher doses, it
becomes anti-depressant.
After trying all of the anti-depressants, none worked except for the
Pamelor which made the ringing in ears worse.
Phase III study of 100 mg daily dose of Nortriptyline was found to be
effective in relieving neuropathy and increasing quality of life in those with neuropathy
caused by cisplatin. Most common side effects were dry mouth, dizziness, and constipation.
(Abstract #229, 1998 ASCO Meeting, <
http://www.asco.org/prof/me/html/98abstracts/asc/m_229.htm >)
Prozac taken for depression seemed to lessen the effects.
Decadron for two days after chemo along with Prednisone for five days
after chemo seemed to help the pain.
Six women in different parts of the country were given a prescription
for gabapentin (Neurontin) by a neurologist. Neurontin is normally prescribed for the
neuropathy associated with diabetes and AIDS. (2 research articles in Journal of
American Medical Association, May 1998 showed Neurontin not only relieved neuropathy
pain but also enhanced mood, improved quality of life, and aided sleep.) Neurontin was
developed to control the seizures associated with epilepsy. Side effects with neurotinin
are slurred speech, fatigue, and twitching. One found relief from the pain with no side
effects. She had tried Elavil but the side effects were too much to handle. Another tried
Neurontin and found the side effect of fatigue too much to handle even though it helped
the neuropathy. The third took 1-300 mg capsule at night just before bed and found it
really helps. Before taking Neurontin, she was unable to sleep through the night because
her legs wake her up. After just a few days she slept through the night. She went off it
as an experiment and couldn=t sleep again. Went back on and sleeping was good again.
The fourth takes 200-400 mg every day which helps so much that she has been able to return
to work as a nurse part time. A fifth went to a pain doctor (an anaesthesiologist who
specializing in pain control) and he told her that 100 mg of neurotinin not sufficient to
do anything. He prescribed 300 mg (100 mg three times a day, spread out evenly with early
on rising, immediately before bed, and mid-day). Within a week, she noticed considerable
relief. The sixth had return of feelings in hands after taking it 3 weeks.
In addition to gabapentin (Neurontin), other anti-seizure medications
which may work to control the sharp jabbing pains of neuropathy are carbamazepine
(Tegretol) and phenytoin (Dilantin). (from <
http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9811/htm/neuropathy.htm >)
Pain medications mentioned were:
-Torodol (10 mg pill) works for the first few days of the most severe
pain, but can be used only for a very short term.
-Morphine sulfate SA for instant relief of severe pain
-Percoset, Darvoset, Advil, Motrin, Tylenol or Tylenol with codeine.
-Vicodin or Darocet taken about 30 minutes before bed helps when pain
is worse.
-Ibuprofen and aspirin (ASA or acetylsalicylic acid) are not usually
recommended as they can increase the tendency to bleed.
One woman used Darvon but the Darvon made her sleepier and more
constipated than she already was. Then she tried 2 Tylenol every 4 hours around the clock,
even during the night, which controlled the pain well.
One oncologist said he didn't feel healing could occur as effectively
while she was hurting from neuropathy. He recommended a combination of Darvocet for the
pain, Xanax for anxiety and depression, and Amitriptyline for neuropathy and sleep.
Are there any herbs, foods, or food supplements which may help???
Physician suggested, woman tested!
Generally these suggestions required 3-12 weeks for an improvement to
be noticed. Available at health food or Wal-Mart type drug stores.
-One400 mg of chondroitin sulfate daily and 500 glucosamine sulfate 2-3
times daily. Normally used for arthritis.
-Herbal Ginko Baloba let her play the piano again!
-One gelatin tablets (10 grains each) with each meal.
-Drinking Tonic Water with Quinine or tonic water in juice.
-Drink made of 1 drop of nutritional iodine in glass of water or juice
each day.
-While on hexalen, taking blue-green algae tablets didn=t
reverse the neuropathy that remained after Taxol and Carboplatin, but she has not
experienced any further neuropathy, even with nine rounds of Hexalen.
-Extra physician prescribed potassium and calcium tablets. Note: Orange
juice and bananas are high in natural potassium.
-Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) reverses nerve damage in diabetics. <
http://www.hnbreakthroughs.com/nov97/doctorsinsight.cfm >.
-Primrose oil and other sources of gamma-linolenic acid such as borage
or black current seed oil, help reduce inflammation in diabetic nerve damage, thus
reversing neuropathy associated with diabetes.
Do vitamins help relieve the symptoms of neuropathy??? Physician
(neurologist, oncologist) suggested; woman tested!
Generally all vitamin suggestions were noted to take several weeks to a
month for an improvement to be noticed, but helpful.
According to a newspaper article, excessive amounts of Vitamin
B1 (thiamine) may help cancers grow, but rational use may slow cancer growth.
Researchers at Ohio State Univ Med Sch suggested that thiamine status should be carefully
monitored and supplements administered only to meet the patient=s
needs. (I was unable to locate original research article in Anticancer Research
Journal < http://polic.cilea.it/~broich/iiar/iiar.html > to determine what are Aexcessive@ and Arational@
amounts. Two other articles at <
http://www.bodyatlas.com/infobytes/1998/19980622i3p1.shtml>,
<http://www.acs.ohio-state.edu/units/cancer/cncrrpt.htm >).
Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine)
-50 mg from one to three times a day. No side effects noted after a
year=s use.
-100 mg daily taken with 400 mg folic acid already contained in Centrum
Silver multi-vitamin.
-One neurologist thought 300 mg of Vitamin B-6 daily could cause
neuropathy and under no circumstance did he recommend
exceeding the RDA of 3-5 mg per day. Note: The RDA is a minimum
daily requirement for the general population.
-Physcians Desk Reference for Hexalen states the use of vitamin
B-6 (pyridoxine) while taking hexalen and cisplatin for
ovca significantly reduced neurotoxicity. B-6 also significantly
reduced the ability to achieve complete remission and markedly reduced the length of
remission. (Cancer Investigation, 10(1):1-9, 1992)
Vitamin B-complex
-One capsule daily containing 400 mcg of folic acid plus 1 all-B
vitamin capsule (containing another 400 mcg of folic acid).
-One B-100 B-complex vitamin supplement daily along with acupuncture
daily.
-One vitamin B-complex 100 mg time release capsule each day.
-One vitamin B-complex capsule daily along with one 250 mg tablet of
magnesium oxide.
Vitamin B-12
-One shot every 21 days provides relief even though she has been on
chemo for the last 2 years.
-Daily doses of calcium, vitamin C, folic acid, and vitamin B-12.
-One woman was forced to use a wheelchair for her severe neuropathy.
After a 3 cc shot of vitamin B-12 three times each week, she regained the feeling in her
chest, face, and all extremities. She was warned that if the treatment is stopped the
neuropathy will return and then, even if the shots are started again, they won't work the
second time.
Vitamin B-3 (niacin)
-One woman found relief taking 250 mg twice a day provided relief.
- Physcians Desk Reference states niacin may cause temporary
flushing, itching and skin reddening. Should not be used by those with heart and gall
bladder disease, gout, bleeding, glaucoma, diabetes, ulcers, or impaired liver function.
Also those taking anit-hypertensive drugs should consult with physician.
Vitamin E supplementation significantly improved nerve function, mostly
in arms and hands, in diabetics after 6 months compared to placebo (sugar pill)
recipients. (Diabetes Care 1998;21:1915-18) , <
http://199.170.17.10/pubs/medbrief/mb2_2.html >
Vitamin K along with Elavil (see medicines below), lots of aerobic
exercise, and a diet high in liquids, fruits, and broccoli.
Will acupuncture or
acupressure massages or massages relieve symptoms of neuropathy??? Physician
suggested, woman tested!
Acupuncture treatments along with acupressure (self or shiatsu)
massages have positively affected neuropathy and may provide relief. Weekly acupuncture
treatments have been found to be beneficial for neuropathy, energy levels, and general
well-being. Although how it works is not yet understood, it does work for some people, is
without pain, is safe, and even relaxing. (Clinical Center News, National Institute
of Health, Oct 1994, p.4-5)
Acupuncture at the points that energetically link the lungs and feet.
Massage therapy with an emphasis on reflexology twice a week helps considerably. Works
better in conjunction with exercise program.
During the second round of the same chemo as first round, one used acupuncture and
found it prevented the recurrence of neuropathy.
One reader consulted a neurologist, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, 2
acupuncturists, a reflexologist, a masseuse, and a chiropractor. None produced a
noticeable long lasting change. Only one thing helped and that was swimming three times
each week. Eighteen months after completion of chemo, the neuropathy is somewhat better.
Another had trouble with her balance so at first she did water aerobics. Once her
balance returned, she began land exercises.
Another sleeps every night with arm/wrist bands on her arms. They are the kind with
metal inserts which are sometimes worn by those with carpal tunnel syndrome. While
uncomfortable in hot weather, they allow her to crochet and knit during the day again!
Other suggestions involving acupuncture, acupressure, massage, therapeutic touch:
-Having a husband or friend trained in therapeutic or deep tissue massage and then do
it every evening.
-Soaking in salt water followed by a massage works well.
Compression stockings were first worn because of some leg swelling, but help
considerably with neuropathy.
Are there any creams which help relieve the burning sensation??? Physician
suggested! Woman tested!
The usual creams mentioned are the hot chili pepper ointments such as Zostrix or
Capsacin or Capzasin-HP. Sold over the counter in drug stores, usually with the arthritis
ointments. Use rubber gloves as it is hard to get off hands. Use several times a day.
One gently massages Capzasin cream on the bottoms of her feet every night to ease the
burning sensation. It doesn =t sting or bur in any way. She does this in the bathroom
so that she can thoroughly wash the ointment off her hand to prevent accidentally getting
it in her eyes. Then she wears a special pair of old scuffs into the bedroom to keep the
cream off the carpet and lays the scuffs by the bed. In the morning she takes the scuffs
back to the bathroom for the next night. If she forgets, she immediately notices its
absence when trying to go to sleep. A tube is about $8.
Another tried using Capsacian on her feet, but they burned so bad that she was up half
the night with water running on her feet and it took about 24 hours to wear off. She
suggests that you use it very sparingly at first on a small area to be sure that you can
tolerate it.
Deciding that chemo made her hands very dry, one used AVitamin
E,A&D Moisturizing Cream@ which is very inexpensive at most drug stores. After
using liberal amounts of the cream for a time period, she realized her hands were less
numb and prickly and so started using it on her feet (bottom of foot and top of toes) with
the same results. She uses the cream faithfully 3 times a day: after her morning shower,
midday, and then just before getting in bed. The skins absorbs the vitamins from the cream
which helps to heal the nerve endings damaged by chemo. It may take a while, but be
patient. She is now able to paint china and do many household chores that weren=t as
easy as before.
Does application of heat or cold help???
Woman tested!
A 16 inch heating tube called a "Bed Buddy" provides warmth which is probably
safer than a heating pad. Purchased at major department stores. Of soft granular
substance, the tube is heated in the microwave for two minutes, but the heat lasts for
hours. Make your own "bed buddy" by filling a large boot sock with either
uncooked corn or rice. Then just before use, microwave it for 2 minutes.
Use an electric blanket in the winter and a heating pad in the summer for feet. Note: Use
electric heating pads with great caution as they may cause burns, easier with decreased
sensation in the skin due to neuropathy. Follow the manufacturer's directions explicitly.
Wash dishes in warm soapy water to help the hands.
Warm soaks in the bath, especially with a head pillow.
-Add 1 cup of Epsom Salt (magnesium sulfate) and 1 cup of Baking Soda (sodium
bicarbonate).
-Soaking in Princess Marcella Borghese Bagno di Vita (Body Soak) in bath water for
15-20 minutes is only thing that works. For sale (about $30) in the make-up departments of
stores like Dillard =s, Kaufmann=s, and Lord & Taylor=s.
Cold works better than heat (showers, hot baths, electric blankets) for some.
Best kind of ice packs are AACE Reusable Cold Compresses with Soft Fabric Touch@ as
they are soft, long enough (5"x10") to wrap around the toes/feet which is held
on with large fairly loose rubber band. Really helpful at night.
Some suggested precautions about shoes and walking if you have neuropathy...
Woman tested!
-Comfortable walking shoes work the best, but just changing shoes seem to help.
-Due to decreased sensation in your feet, wear protective footwear. Otherwise you can
damage your feet, and not know it.
-A good pair of walking shoes, especially with arch supports, help with balance
problems. Sandals are no help.
-Ditch the high heals as they only make it worse.
-Good walking shoes from a specialized shoe store with athletic-type insoles added.
-Orthopedic in-depth shoes with thick foam inserts fashioned for your foot by a
podiatrist.
-Thick solid socks, custom made orthodics (inserts) and in-depth tie-on shoes.
-Shoes are better than bare feet, but have your feet measured as feet sometimes change
during cancer treatment.
-A good quality tie walking shoe is far better than slip-ons, dress shoes with narrow
or high heels, or flimsy shoes (sandals).
-If toes droop or fold under, causing you to trip or causing broken toes, wear shoes or
house shoes with firm soles.
-Magnets in the shoes make a significant difference. One web site to purchase is <
http://www.buyamag.com/insoles.htm >.
-Magnetic therapy may be highly effective for alleviating foot pain experienced by
diabetics. Patients with foot pain from various conditions enrolled in randomized placebo
study were given one foot pad with magnet and one foot pad without but were not told which
one had magnet. Then pads were switched half way thru trial. Only diabetics found relief
from foot pain. Researcher Dr Micheal Weintraub of New York Medical College believes
magnets create fields which create ionic flux and electric energy which then calms
disease-related hyperactivity in the small nerves of feet. (American Journal of Pain
Management, Jan 1999 and New York Times, 1/6/99, pA-16)
-Keep your toenails trimmed short as that prevents rubbing (irritation) against the
shoe.
-If your sheets and blankets irritate your feet, use a foot board or hoop (in medical
supply stores) to raise the covers.
-Digi Cushions for toes are lined with a polymer gel which guards toes against shock,
pressure, and friction. Works better than regular foam sleeves. Tubes can be cut for 12-16
perfectly sized reusable cushions. About $10. Call 800-785-0880.
Does exercise help or worsen neuropathy??? Woman tested!
- Time-outs to elevate the feet and short walks help with the pain.
- Standing in a confined space such as the kitchen tends to bother another more than
walking.
- Walking every day just a little farther and then a daily massage of the feet and
legs eventually caused the pain to subside.
- Keep at the exercise as it gradually gets better with practice.
- Occasionally exercise barefoot to stretch the soles and spread the toes. Massage
the feet.
- Water exercise classes in the deep end (with flotation devices to aid in balance)
take the weight off the feet and hands.
- Walking and doing leg stretches everyday helps another.
- Rest after each treatment seems to lessen the later development of neuropathy.
- Sitting in a recliner makes it worse.
- Seems worse at the end of the day or when tired so try to get adequate rest during
the day.
Suggested precautions if you have balance difficulties
or loss of sensation about where hands/feet are located...Woman tested!
- Watch where you are stepping.
- Use extra caution when handling anything that is sharp or you are near dangerous
objects.
- Be sure to use adequate protection when outdoors in cold weather.
- Use protection such as hot pads when touching cold or hot objects or items which
you don't know the temperature.
- Use good lighting to see where you are.
- Wear rubber gloves for most cleaning tasks to prevent cuts, scrapes, and damage
from harsh cleaning chemicals and abrasives.
- Really LOOK to see if you have a good grip on things.
- Pay attention to what you are doing and concentrate on the task at hand.
- Move slower and with more deliberation.
- On stairs, use the handrails and/or have someone by your side.
- Use a cane for balance.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
-
General suggestions for coping..... Woman tested!
- Try to keep busy, especially those activities which occupy the mind.
- Coffee, tea and other caffeine products aggravate the symptoms.
Think about other things helps as much as anything. One woman realized she just
forgot to notice it.
- If you find a comfortable spot, don't move. If you need anything, ask someone else
to get it for you.
- Wear flexible braces at night on the hands/wrists. Braces, like those for carpal
tunnel, are inexpensive at drug stores. During the summer they are hot and sweaty, but do
work!
- Park closer to stores after obtaining a handicapped license tag for the car.
- Smoking cigarettes seems to make it worse.
- Use the electric carts in the stores helps when walking or balance was affected.
- Typing is easier than writing when neuropathy affects the hands.
- It is possible to get a job-related disability, either short term or long term,
based upon severity or neuropathy. Check with your local Social Security office, your
physician, or your disability insurance administrator.
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