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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
December 28, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members shared a wide range of strategies for managing neuropathy pain, burning, and cramping in their feet and hands, with the most... Read more

Members shared a wide range of strategies for managing neuropathy pain, burning, and cramping in their feet and hands, with the most consistent theme being that controlling blood glucose and A1C levels significantly reduced or eliminated symptoms for many. Several members found relief through medications like Cymbalta, Gabapentin, and Lyrica (though Lyrica caused severe side effects for some), while others recommended topical solutions including Biofreeze spray, lidocaine cream, Voltaren, cannabis ointment, and essential oils like peppermint. A recurring theme was addressing underlying deficiencies, particularly magnesium and Vitamin D, along with practical self-care like daily foot soaking, massage with lotion followed by fluffy socks, compression socks, heat or ice packs, proper footwear, and supplements such as curcumin with black pepper, B12, B6, and L-Arginine.

A DiabetesTeam Member

I use Hyland's leg cramp meds for my leg and foot pain,mine are charley horse type pain and this med is a homeopathic medicine that you get at walmart in the vitamin aisle.I take 2 at night before going to bed,and havn't had a pain since i started this several months ago.I also use a heating pad if i do get the cramps/charleyhorses,as heat is the only thing that will make mine go away,once they've gotten started.

February 19, 2020
A DiabetesTeam Member

Lyrica is good for such pain but BEWARE - it can damage or destroy synapses in the brain. Try it, and when the pain subsides replace it with curcumin with black pepper. This has worked for me for the last four years. Peripheral neuropathy crippled my right foot by causing it to drop. I know what you have been going through!

September 20, 2018
A DiabetesTeam Member

I just started using L-Arginine -- I read that Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels tend to be low in diabetics and treatment with DHEA is believed to be beneficial in peripheral neuropathy. ... L-Arginine helps supply nitric oxide for wound healing and improves circulation, which can be of great benefit in diabetic peripheral neuropathy. I am going to give it at least 3 months -- will keep you all posted.

September 15, 2018
A DiabetesTeam Member

Try taking Curcumin, and get a brand that also contains black pepper (for better absorption).

March 16, 2018 (edited)
A DiabetesTeam Member

After being diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency, restoration of normal levels improved my symptoms substantially.

February 23, 2017

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