1. < Neuropathy

Is it worth trying to resolve peripheral neuropathy?

Posted by darrenm @darrenm, Jul 31, 2020

G'day,

I'm 53 yo bloke and suffer from peripheral neuropathy. I get these sharp burning/stinging pains (like bee stings) that usually start in my hands and feet and then spread to my lower torso. Usually starts first thing in the morning and maybe flare-up 3-5 times over the first few hours of the day with then just occasional atacks later in the day. The pain is usally quite severe and last for 2-3 minutes in duration where I usually rush to the nearest tap and use cold water to try and soothe the pain.

It all began randomly 4 years ago, lasted for about 3-5 months then disappeared for 6 months, came again for a similar period of time except the pain got worse. It came back in a mild form a year or so ago but again disappeared. It has just started again last week and it is worse than ever. Shooting, searing pain in hands feet, and lower back and stomach. I believe I have a high pain threshold, but the pain is is pretty bad and makes me reluctant to leave home to avoid a public episode.

I have seen doctors and a neurologist without a definitive diagnosis though SFN was first assumed. I have been prescribed, Endep, Lyrica and Andrepera all with no success, made literally zero difference even after months of use. I am arranging to see the neurologist again, but wondering what the point is given it's primarily about pain management and I already know that but none of it has worked in the past. Apologies if I sound negative or entitled, just frustrated.

Cheers Darren

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Barry Sheales | @user_che214927 | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @darrenm "Thanks all, Went to the docs today, and he has ordered more blood tests as well..." + (show)
@darrenm

Thanks all,

Went to the docs today, and he has ordered more blood tests as well as a return visit to my old neurologist (and asked me to take Lyrica again for a month). Yes, everyone else seems to describe more permanent pain not of my type which is extreme for minutes then dissipates. Regarding cause, I had a decent motorcycle accident some years ago, but I'm not convinced there is a correlation as I had an time of episodes before that, and I did just get out of the hospital a few weeks back from shoulder surgery (related to the bike accident 3 years ago) and the neuropathy started a few days after that, but that might be a coincidence. Anyway, you have all given me food for thought and I get back to you when things move forward. Thanks for taking the time to offer guidance and comment, much appreciated.

Cheers, Darren.

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Darren, I can't believe what I am reading. Peripheral-neuropathy can now be reversed by practice of Neuroplasticity. A comprehensiive test by a good neurologist , will definately diagnose your condition . Don't go back to your old neurologist, research and meet with a top neurologist. Luckily you live in America. I would head straight to the Mayo hospital team. If it is established that you really do have peripheral-neuropathy, you have two choices to consider. Do nothing and suffer in silence, or overcome it totally by practicing Neuroplasticity. Like most tough times, the decision is yours.There are 2 books you should read. Details of both are in my previous posts. Recovery will require discipline and mental perseverance, but, you are still a young man, with the world at your. Just go for it

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2 replies
Mentor
Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @user_che214927 "Darren, I can't believe what I am reading. Peripheral-neuropathy can now be reversed by practice of..." + (show)
@user_che214927

Darren, I can't believe what I am reading. Peripheral-neuropathy can now be reversed by practice of Neuroplasticity. A comprehensiive test by a good neurologist , will definately diagnose your condition . Don't go back to your old neurologist, research and meet with a top neurologist. Luckily you live in America. I would head straight to the Mayo hospital team. If it is established that you really do have peripheral-neuropathy, you have two choices to consider. Do nothing and suffer in silence, or overcome it totally by practicing Neuroplasticity. Like most tough times, the decision is yours.There are 2 books you should read. Details of both are in my previous posts. Recovery will require discipline and mental perseverance, but, you are still a young man, with the world at your. Just go for it

Jump to this post

@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such a firm believer in neuroplasticity! I'd like to share with you that I'm trying hard to practice this theory and this past weekend was benefited by it while away at the lake for a small redirection of life. I ACTUALLY went on a 2 mile trail hike with my husband!!! I was (and still am) dumbfounded by my accomplishment. My family was astonished and so proud. It felt incredibly liberating. I continue to scratch my head at to how I did it. But, here's what I crack it up to...I went slow, with frequent rests. Both on a bench and standing still, bending over. I used a lot of brain power by talking myself through, mentally arguing with the feelings and sensations I felt in my body and dismissing them. I had focus, which is key, and incredible distraction. Nature is healing and I know that. My first day at the cabin was one where I sat back and said goodbye as my husband and daughter went off to explore the trails. Day two, I was determined to make it happen for myself. Pain medicine is just one aspect of what helped me but, I'm most proud to have had the push, the desire. I've read that traveling creates new neurons and aids in neuroplasticity, in addition to learning a new language, eating and using your opposite hand, learning to play an instrument, driving new routes. Barry ~ I hope you are well and wish to thank you for being a little voice in my head when it comes to retraining the brain. You're the best! May you reach your goals of riding your bike outside of your house! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
Best wishes,
Rachel

REPLY
2 replies
Barry Sheales | @user_che214927 | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @rwinney "@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such..." + (show)
@rwinney

@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such a firm believer in neuroplasticity! I'd like to share with you that I'm trying hard to practice this theory and this past weekend was benefited by it while away at the lake for a small redirection of life. I ACTUALLY went on a 2 mile trail hike with my husband!!! I was (and still am) dumbfounded by my accomplishment. My family was astonished and so proud. It felt incredibly liberating. I continue to scratch my head at to how I did it. But, here's what I crack it up to...I went slow, with frequent rests. Both on a bench and standing still, bending over. I used a lot of brain power by talking myself through, mentally arguing with the feelings and sensations I felt in my body and dismissing them. I had focus, which is key, and incredible distraction. Nature is healing and I know that. My first day at the cabin was one where I sat back and said goodbye as my husband and daughter went off to explore the trails. Day two, I was determined to make it happen for myself. Pain medicine is just one aspect of what helped me but, I'm most proud to have had the push, the desire. I've read that traveling creates new neurons and aids in neuroplasticity, in addition to learning a new language, eating and using your opposite hand, learning to play an instrument, driving new routes. Barry ~ I hope you are well and wish to thank you for being a little voice in my head when it comes to retraining the brain. You're the best! May you reach your goals of riding your bike outside of your house! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
Best wishes,
Rachel

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Hi Rachel . Have you read both of Norman Doige's books. Details of them is in my previous posts. Physical exercise is great for our general health, because , in my case, I am totally physically fit. Lots of people try to convine me that exercis will fix my disobedient feet. I am sick of explaining I have a nerve problem online. You sound like aa very

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Mentor
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @rwinney "Here is a sampling." + (show)
@rwinney

Here is a sampling.

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Thanks for sharing these photos with us Rachel @rwinney - so calm and serene!

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1 reply
Barry Sheales | @user_che214927 | Aug 3, 2020

strong determined woman, as probably your mother was also. Luckily my mother was. What we have can be overcome, but it will not happen overnight. Do not just read the books, seriosly study , double check situations on google. Then re read. The brain is indeed incredible, and if you are convinced thè cure IS possible, you will certainly overcome peripheral-neuropathy. Best wishes and go for it.

REPLY
1 reply
Mentor
Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @johnbishop "Thanks for sharing these photos with us Rachel @rwinney - so calm and serene!" + (show)
@johnbishop

Thanks for sharing these photos with us Rachel @rwinney - so calm and serene!

Jump to this post

@johnbishop You're welcome! Hope to bring some peace to all.

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1 reply
Mentor
Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @user_che214927 "strong determined woman, as probably your mother was also. Luckily my mother was. What we have..." + (show)
@user_che214927

strong determined woman, as probably your mother was also. Luckily my mother was. What we have can be overcome, but it will not happen overnight. Do not just read the books, seriosly study , double check situations on google. Then re read. The brain is indeed incredible, and if you are convinced thè cure IS possible, you will certainly overcome peripheral-neuropathy. Best wishes and go for it.

Jump to this post

@user_che214927 You nailed it...yes, my Mom is a strong woman, my inspiration actually. I've researched the books and will continue to apply. Thanks Barry!

REPLY
Hank | @jesfactsmon | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @rwinney "@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such..." + (show)
@rwinney

@user_che214927 Hi Barry (and all my Connect friends too 🙂). I love that you are such a firm believer in neuroplasticity! I'd like to share with you that I'm trying hard to practice this theory and this past weekend was benefited by it while away at the lake for a small redirection of life. I ACTUALLY went on a 2 mile trail hike with my husband!!! I was (and still am) dumbfounded by my accomplishment. My family was astonished and so proud. It felt incredibly liberating. I continue to scratch my head at to how I did it. But, here's what I crack it up to...I went slow, with frequent rests. Both on a bench and standing still, bending over. I used a lot of brain power by talking myself through, mentally arguing with the feelings and sensations I felt in my body and dismissing them. I had focus, which is key, and incredible distraction. Nature is healing and I know that. My first day at the cabin was one where I sat back and said goodbye as my husband and daughter went off to explore the trails. Day two, I was determined to make it happen for myself. Pain medicine is just one aspect of what helped me but, I'm most proud to have had the push, the desire. I've read that traveling creates new neurons and aids in neuroplasticity, in addition to learning a new language, eating and using your opposite hand, learning to play an instrument, driving new routes. Barry ~ I hope you are well and wish to thank you for being a little voice in my head when it comes to retraining the brain. You're the best! May you reach your goals of riding your bike outside of your house! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼
Best wishes,
Rachel

Jump to this post

Rachel I am so happy that you had such a fantastic experience over the weekend, and those supposedly weak legs of your carried you two miles. That is something! There is a lot to be said for a strong will. I know, I'm married to someone with one. I bet you had wished you could stay longer at the lake, your shots indicate a VERY nice environment to hang out at. I'm not too familiar with the concept of neuroplasticity which you and Barry mention. I've heard the term, of course, but just never heard much about it. My next thing to research. Best, Hank

REPLY
1 reply
Mentor
Rachel, Volunteer Mentor | @rwinney | Aug 3, 2020
In reply to @jesfactsmon "Rachel I am so happy that you had such a fantastic experience over the weekend, and..." + (show)
@jesfactsmon

Rachel I am so happy that you had such a fantastic experience over the weekend, and those supposedly weak legs of your carried you two miles. That is something! There is a lot to be said for a strong will. I know, I'm married to someone with one. I bet you had wished you could stay longer at the lake, your shots indicate a VERY nice environment to hang out at. I'm not too familiar with the concept of neuroplasticity which you and Barry mention. I've heard the term, of course, but just never heard much about it. My next thing to research. Best, Hank

Jump to this post

Thank you Hank! Research away. 😊

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