5 Last-minute Christmas Gifts for Neuropathy Patients

With the holiday season upon us, friends and family members of neuropathy patients may be scrambling to find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. Choosing a gift for someone with familial amyloid polyneuropathy may be a sensitive subject for those unfamiliar with its symptoms. Many will be unsure about appropriate gifts for those suffering from peripheral neuropathy symptoms.

What gift-givers should know

Christmas is one of two holidays that my family celebrates. At this time of year, my mother-in-law does her best to prepare her house for the extended family members who visit. She receives many gifts from relatives, usually in the form of snacks and gift cards for digital services.

Her peripheral neuropathy symptoms make it difficult for her to enjoy most physical gifts. Her symptoms include tingling, numbness, and burning sensations that cause severe discomfort to her hands and feet.

As she cannot eat most foods because of digestive issues, gifts must be carefully selected. Choosing presents for her can be time-consuming. If you’re struggling to find an appropriate gift for your loved one, I’ve compiled a list of last-minute gift ideas for neuropathy patients.

5 last-minute gift ideas

Rubbing oil

This topical treatment contains a blend of essential oils, including frankincense and myrrh, which might provide temporary relief from the numbness and burning sensations that accompany peripheral neuropathy. 

CBD rapid cooling cream

For those who are interested in the potential healing effects of cannabidiol, this CBD cream offers a cooling effect for patients prone to burning sensations in the peripheral joints.

Portable foot massager

A foot massage may offer neuropathy patients relief from discomfort around the feet and calf muscles. With different speeds and styles of massage, including shiatsu, this list of portable foot massagers might be useful. Please check with your loved one or their caregiver beforehand, as a foot massage device may be unsuitable for those with particularly sensitive feet.

Compression socks

Compression socks offer support for sensitive feet and help to increase blood flow. However, like foot massagers, compression socks might be unsuitable for those who suffer from severe swelling. For those who can wear them, these items can be worn around the house or while traveling.

Supportive footwear

Patients with severe peripheral neuropathy symptoms may require special supportive footwear to prevent discomfort. Various brands may offer arch support and expanded toe boxes for sensitive feet. Check with your loved one or their caregiver for the correct size before proceeding with the purchase. A store gift card may be an option for loved ones who prefer to choose their own gift.

No matter what you choose, I’m sure that your thoughtful gift will be appreciated.

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Note: FAP News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of FAP News Today or its parent company, Bionews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to familial amyloid polyneuropathy.