The lead author was Yu-Wen Chen, PhD. of China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan. The results support exercise as a nondrug alternative treatment for neuropathic pain and suggests it may work by reducing inflammation-producing substances like cytokines. Neuropathy is commonly seen in diabetics, who have nerve damage in their feet. Dr. Chen and his colleagues studied the effects of exercise on neuropathic pain induced by sciatic nerve injury in rats. After the nerve injury, some rats performed excessive exercise for several weeks, such as swimming or treadmill running. Pain behavior was monitored and evaluated against neuropathic pain severity. The results showed significant reductions in neuropathic pain in rats who swam or ran on the treadmill. The exercise reduced abnormal responses to temperature and pressure, both of which are characteristics of neuropathic pain.
Exercise lead to an increased production of a protein, heat-shock protein-27, which may have contributed to the decreased amount of cytokines. Neuropathy can be a difficult condition to treat, both with medication and without medication. Antidepressant and antiepileptic drugs can be helpful, but have significant side effects. Exercise reduced pain by 30 to 50 percent. The study also added new evidence that inflammation contributes to the development of neuropathic pain.
If you are a diabetic who suffers from neuropathy and do not currently see a podiatrist, call our Bristol office to make an appointment.
Richard E. Ehle, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Diabetic Foot Care in CT
Podiatrist in Bristol, CT
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About 15 months ago developed peripheral neuropathy and also very tightened muscles. Still, I became an enthusiastic walker (through the moderate pain). I don't believe you should force exercise. I believe our bodies are very intuitive. So if your body is tired and needs to rest - you should rest. I know a major problem is foot neuropathy but I would go day by day. If your body feels a little better and you can do a walk - then go for a walk. But stop when your body tells you.
ReplyDeletediabetic neuropathic pain results from damage or disease affecting the somatosensory system.[1] It may be associated with abnormal sensations called dysesthesia, and pain produced by normally non-painful stimuli (allodynia).
ReplyDeletePainful diabetic neuropathic pain is a common complication of diabetes and can affect many aspects of life and severely limit patients' daily functions. This condition can be difficult to treat, which frustrates both providers and patients.
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