I am so sorry you are dealing with this. My PN, which appeared just before the lumbar radiculopathy, is caused by compression of the spinal nerve. When the disc herniated, the pain became … intense. I can’t take opioids, and the only thing that really helped was steroids (which I could only take for 2 weeks). During the worst of it, Gabapentin did nothing but make me sleepy, which was not a bad thing since I mostly had to stay in bed.

After trying physical therapy, aqua therapy, acupuncture, rest, and epidural steroid injections, I finally had back surgery to decompress the spine. This resolved 90% of the pain, and about 50% of the numbness.

To a large extent, my goal now is to learn to live with the numbness. I do a lot of exercise focusing on balance, and do regular reflexology on the numb foot. At this point I take Gabapentin several times a week when the foot burns or hurts, use an ice boot, and have amassed a large assortment of orthopedic shoes!! For me, the regimen of vitamins and supplements effective for many people, have not been productive, although I continue high doses of B12.

Do NOT be intimidated by your medical team. Ask them point blank to explain until you clearly understand. Trust me - they are just regular people and honestly when it comes to neuropathy I think they are just trying to hide what they don’t know!!