Neuropathy Feet and legs

Posted by danwealthy @danwealthy, Oct 6, 2022

Hi my feet and legs are like on pin and needles. I have lower back issues L4-L5 which shots in the low back have been unsuccessful. One of my doctors advised me to get some cream or something that has Capsaicin in it to help bloc the nerve signal. The one I choose was PainBloc 24 unfortunately they have stopped production. Im looking for anything I can replace it with any suggestions? I want a roll on or spray because I cant reach my back with a frozen shoulder!

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@bustrbrwn22

@jenatsky thanks for the very helpful post. It was recommended to me to use the “spoon” theory to keep my pain under control which is proving challenging for me. How did you come to the 2 mile goal? Does it deplete all your reserves for the day or is that the maximum you can do and still function at a tolerable pain level? I am trying to adjust my attitude to one of acceptance of my limitations with chronic pain which is causing me to go through a grieving process but intellectually I know this is what I have to do. Thanks for your honest post and sharing any additional experiences you have!

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Would you mind explaining what the spoon theory is? Bcool123

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@feetie

Thank you for your response. I've been dealing with neuropathy for 20+ years, and of course I've had to make adjustments. Mine isn't too bad during the day as long as I'm vertical. I can only sleep for an hour or two at a time, so I try to nap in the recliner during the day. I don't waste my time wishing things were different. I'm a pragmatist and accept things as they are. At age 85, I'm still able to drive, which is a good thing because hubby is in a nursing home that's a two and a half hour drive from here.
Thanks again for your clarification.

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feetie - I read your post and you ARE an encouragement for many of us with PN and to be honest, here you are 85 years old and been dealing with neuropathy for 20 years. So sorry to hear about husband in a nursing home but glad you have that ability to drive and see him. Stay positive! Ed

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@bcool123

Would you mind explaining what the spoon theory is? Bcool123

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@becool123 For chronic pain people, there's a way of dealing with your new life that's called something like "spoon" theory. You basically have to determine how many spoons you have in a day. Spoons refer to activities you can do before pain becomes unmanageable. For instance, if I think I have 5 spoons in a day, vacuuming for me for 15 minutes uses 1 spoon. After that, I need to stretch and rest or the pain will be unmanageable and might keep me in bed for days. Another spoon for me would be making the bed. After I do that, I need to rest. Same thing with vacuuming for 15 minutes. This gives you a way of planning your activities every day at a realistic level. I'm still trying to wrap my head around how limited my activities need to be. Once you accept it I guess it's not that bad and actually helps you prioritize where you want to put your energy. I hope I am explaining it in an understandable way.

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@bustrbrwn22

@becool123 For chronic pain people, there's a way of dealing with your new life that's called something like "spoon" theory. You basically have to determine how many spoons you have in a day. Spoons refer to activities you can do before pain becomes unmanageable. For instance, if I think I have 5 spoons in a day, vacuuming for me for 15 minutes uses 1 spoon. After that, I need to stretch and rest or the pain will be unmanageable and might keep me in bed for days. Another spoon for me would be making the bed. After I do that, I need to rest. Same thing with vacuuming for 15 minutes. This gives you a way of planning your activities every day at a realistic level. I'm still trying to wrap my head around how limited my activities need to be. Once you accept it I guess it's not that bad and actually helps you prioritize where you want to put your energy. I hope I am explaining it in an understandable way.

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Great explanation. I would love to do “all the things”, but I know what will happen - a night of pain.

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@julbpat

Great explanation. I would love to do “all the things”, but I know what will happen - a night of pain.

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@julbpat I admit I am new to this journey and having a hard time accepting it. Hearing others’ stories help me.

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@karleenhubley

Have you had an MRI of your L4,5? I did and it showed compression. I am having back surgery in November to open up the spinal column which is compressed.Minimal surgery. One month recovery with no driving etc.

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Did it. Help neuropathy

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@oliviaflickamay

My years of progressively worsening PN turned out to be caused by Amlodipine. All gone now. (Keep searching for the right answer).

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Can I ask where you got the PN . I’m also on bp meds wondering about them. How long did it take to go away after stopping and did you go on any other meds ?

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Why not try a Capsaicin spray ? There are some sold on Amazon

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