Tips to Reduce Peripheral Neuropathy Pain and Improve Sleep Quality
Pain from peripheral neuropathy can become severe enough to disrupt sleep patterns and cause poor sleep quality for patients. Those with familial amyloid polyneuropathy may experience painful symptoms including burning sensations and pain aggravation at rest.
Because neuropathic pain and quality of sleep are correlated, patients struggling with them may be looking for ways to improve their overall physical well-being.
Why neuropathy patients may have poor sleep quality
The pain associated with peripheral neuropathy symptoms can make it difficult for patients to fall asleep. Concurrently, this lack of sleep may cause pain symptoms to worsen. A patient’s sensitivity to pain may be directly correlated to the severity of their insomnia.
How neuropathy medications may affect sleep
For most patients, pharmacological agents may be part of their daily treatment for neuropathy. Treatments such as pregabalin and gabapentin are two of the most 8common pharmacological agents used in treating neuropathy. A 2017 review of previous studies that was published in the journal Pain and Therapy found that pregabalin improved quality of sleep in 77 percent of treated patients, while patients who took daily doses of gabapentin reported better sleep scores than those who took a placebo.
Still, patients who use gabapentin should be aware of the medication’s potential side effects. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Changing habits to improve sleep quality
My mother-in-law has struggled with disrupted sleep patterns due to her neuropathy pain. Some of her struggles with this pain may have been related to her tendency to stay awake until 4 or 5 a.m. when extended family came to visit. Her excitement at having her mother or siblings visit led her to stay awake and talk, play board games, or watch television with them until around the time my father-in-law woke up from his previous evening’s sleep.
This sleeping pattern may not be advisable for patients who struggle with neuropathy pain, especially at night. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chronic sleep deprivation may increase the risk of high blood pressure, which also may increase neuropathic pain. Patients who suffer from neuropathic pain and disrupted sleep should maintain a healthy sleep pattern and not go to bed too late.
Other ways to help
Advising patients to improve their sleep patterns may be easier said than done. Still, following are some ways in which neuropathy patients can improve their quality of sleep and potentially reduce neuropathy pain symptoms.
Alter sleeping position
Patients with neuropathic pain may improve their overall quality of sleep by simply changing their sleeping position. A 2005 study found that patients could treat their nocturnal pain by sleeping in a position that extends the spine, potentially decompressing the nerves that control sensations in the lower limbs and feet. Some recommended sleeping positions include sleeping in a recliner, sleeping on the back with a pillow underneath the legs, and sleeping on one side of the body with a pillow between the thighs.
Reduce daytime nerve compression
Daily physical activity may cause the nerves in a neuropathy patient’s legs to compress, potentially increasing evening neuropathic pain. Patients with neuropathic pain in the lower extremities may alleviate evening pain by reducing the amount of walking they do during the day. Using a wheeled walker or a wheelchair may help to decompress the spine during the daytime, possibly making it easier to sleep at night.
Stress reduction
Patients may find it easier to sleep when the amount of stress in their lives is reduced. Stress reduction may come in the form of counseling, spending time with friends and family, and partaking in enjoyable things.
Tea
Sleep-inducing teas such as chamomile may help patients fall asleep faster. Still, neuropathy patients must be mindful of the temperature of the tea, as numbness may cause a patient to misjudge the actual temperature of the liquid. When taking a sleep-inducing tea, patients and caregivers may find it best to let the tea cool down to room temperature or serve it as iced tea.
Do you have methods for improving your quality of sleep? Leave a comment below to share how you approach improving your sleeping pattern.
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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.
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Comments
Deborah Jean
Any articles related to my Neuropathy in my feet is a welcome read. I wish I could find a cream that would help with the night time throbbing. Any suggestions?
Maureen Moore
I’m 87years& don’t remember when I had more than a few hrs sleep ! The burning feet is like effecting my brain like nerve sensations.. Had these feet for 20 years & got worse. . I do exercises & gardening & feel fit & healthy. Had all the blood tests clear& normal BP. Take painkiller going to bed,but of no great help. Thank you Maureen
Victor
I use Magnilife DB Cream for my feet (Available at Walmart.com
James Gichai
For those who feel extreme cold on their feet, they can buy "hot water bottle"
Athena
Hello! I have supposedly severe Peripheral Neuropathy in my feet and calves!? It’s going on 3 years now. I see a Neurologist at Barrows in Phoenix AZ. My pain is so severe in my feet, both. Unbearable pain! I have had 4 expensive mattresses, 3 air mattresses, 2 custom beds. And the floor numerous times. Only the air mattress seemed to work if it was deflated where my buttocks are? With my feet raised and my but low in a sunken position. But there has to be no pressure on my buttocks? Tried expensive Lazyboy recliner and my ankles swelled? Unbelievable! The opposite of what it should be! When I got the peripheral neuropathy, I got mine over a period of 24 hrs, and it started in one foot and it was full blown pain and severe swelling, and then the other foot started and it happened exactly like the other foot? Uncommon! So, I get no sleep and still confused of whether or not the Doctors have missed something and it’s something else? MRI’s , EMG’s, but I haven’t had the Nerve MRI ! There are only a few of them in the United States! It took the Emergency room visits, over a period of 6 months to finally bring in a hospital specialist ????. I was in a wheelchair by the time I was diagnosed. I started having severe pain in my hands in the morning, but they did another EMG and said it wasn’t the Peripheral neuropathy? “Don’t know WHAT that is?” Hmmm? So, I have tried everything to get sleep and I have run out of ideas. Seriously, I should write a book on it!! I still think they have missed something, or an injury from my past, and aren’t reading the MRI of my back correctly! Or, SOMETHING! It came on to fast! If any doctor reads this or has any input, please contact me , no spam! Thankyou for reading this and my heart goes out to anyone suffering from this.
Pramod Rai
Very use ful information
Eligah Thomas
Could I get the shot for my nerves in my arm
Colin M Gibbons
i suffer from RLS restless leg syndrome
what do you suggest for me to do about the pain from this??
Freda G Lovell
None of these things help me, none! I have tried heat and ice too, SCS, injections, back surgery, blocks, the only thing left is ketamine and I am looking into that. It is very expensive, but I have nothing left to try. I want to try INF but I can't get to the clinic. I can't sleep at all. I am going insane!! They have me on opioids but they give me insomnia. Emg shows S1 and S2 is compressed but the MRI shows nothing. I hit my head on my hardwood floors a TBI from Bradycardia and this started after the pacemaker went in. I often think the pacemaker caused this!! It took them 2 and half hours to get the pacemaker in my chest. That short 30 minute surgery was a nightmare!! My foot started to burn 4 days after that surgery!! I feel like having the damn thing removed!! They say I have CRPS now!! Nothing is working my life is a nightmare and I know why they call this the suicide disease!! A girl in Canada had her leg removed but the US will not. She is doing well now. I am also diabetic, but my A1C has been under control for years with diet. It's only been in left leg, but now spreading in right a very little. I wonder if I have PAD but they say no. I will go again and have it checked. Any suggestions.
FAYE Lorraine Gray
I have suffered with peripheral neuropathy for 10 years. I am totaly sick of the meds I have been given. Especially the antidepressents and those for epilesy that dont really help.So I have taken myself off these and am just looking for something to help with nerve pain and sleep problems.
Betty Schwartz
I used wet socks with a fan blowing on my feet at the end of my bed. That was my relief so,I could sleep. A cream called N Kalm from Zana company has helped. Hope this helps.
Deepak Sheth
I am suffering from peripheral nephropathy since last 2-3 years. have no Diabetes no B-12 deficiency but affected from depression. Is there any natural tips for control it.I have also used Pregason tablet & Cream but no effect.But DETOX foot patch affect good when I am using but economical costly for common man. can you suggest to solve this problem permanently ?
Maureen Robichaud
I had a L4 L5 fusion done I left side 22 months ago. My pain and sciatica pain is gone. Unfortunately I woke up with my right foot numb Was told repeatedly it’s normal. That numbness on my foot has turned into numbness burning sensory horrid feelings sharp nerve pain stabs sometimes electrical type pain. I’m on Gabepentin tried it with an antidepressant that I took myself off which did nothing. I have had a spinal cord stimulator implanted in my spine. Not having luck with that either. I cannot understand that at this day and age they have not conquered this horrible nightmare. I consider myself a strong woman but I am beginning to weaken. I had a slipped disc repaired and woke up with this. So disheartening. Has this happened to anyone?
Joan Mc
It’s awful I had a 100 % heart lock got pacemaker. I went without O2 for a bit. I also have Sjogrens….PN in both feet and legs. Falling… so. Depressing. I’m 62 and look healthy. Clearly I am not.
Bella
I am 80 yrs. Old and have had PN for 4 yrs. now, going on 5; due to many surgeries. Alpha Lopoic Acid seems to give me relief when I remember to take it. Messaging my feet with lotion at night they really like to be pampered. Also Olive Oil with a little Lavender Oil, pat on, do not rub in after bathing.. Alllow time for oil to soak in. DON'T DO TOO MUCH WALKING OR STANDING.
Reggie,
Sadly, I'm the spouse of a 70yrs women who has only recently been inflicted by PN, Almost all the comments would apply to my wife. I have investigated many options;( outside of dr meds which don't work) one approach that sounds promising is ultrasound theaoy ? Has anyone tried this method of pain relief (with success or failure) thxs very much Reggie.
Roberto
Hi Deborah, if you are looking for a cream basis for your feet have you tried Vickey Vapour by rubbing and massage the bottom of your feet? It may give you some form of relief, why not try see how it goes. Good luck and best wishes
Mary Alexopoulos
Pls help me. I have 24/7 pins and needles in my private and pelvic area. No meds doctors therapy hospitals can't help me.
Eleanor Hawkins
I Am Eleanor King Hawkins Diagnosed With Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy known As, Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome,Since 1988.
Yes, Due To RSD, The Musc University Hospital In Charleston, South Carolina,USA Had To Amputation My Left Leg AboveThe Knee, Later RSD And My Bones, Muscles And Nerves Was Destroyed. Leaving Me Paraplegic And Spinal Cord Damage.
I Just Had My 5th Medtronic Spinal Cord Implant At 76 Years Young.
My Physicians Took Me Off Lyrica 150 Mg. X 3. At My Request,Due To Excessive Rapid Weight Gain.
I Am Currently Back On Balofen 10 Mg. X 3.
This Was Given To Me In 1988.
I Still In Moderate Pain With High Blood Pressure, During Fairly Well At 76 Years Young.
Margaret Lohan
Any cure for a manipulated joints of ribcage I am in burning pain 24xx7 horrific
Cecil Brotherson
I've had nerve problems in my feet for about a year now and I'm 59 years old. I tried biofreeze professional and it has helped my feet tremendously so I would recommend to use that, you have to get it online Walmart.com you can't buy it at the store.
Sally Schmidt
As an RN I have found Sheer Elegance Support stocking to the waist helps my neuropathy. I cut out the foot section and wear a sock to prevent the constricting feeling in my feet. Since they are tight around my waist, I cut the stocking waist band on each side for comfort. I also have venous insufficiency in my legs so need light compression of a stocking. It feels like I am wearing stockings instead of feeling tingling, heaviness and burning. Walking in the pool helps without stockings, of course. I take 20 mg. Of Cymbalta twice a day also which help block pain messages to the brain. Dizziness can be a side effect, so do not drink alcohol. Movement is better than too much sitting. I hope this helps.
Barbara Smith
I have read and printed your "Tips to Reduce P N Pain and Improve Sleep Quality". I found it so very interesting and helpful, it could have been written for my symptoms and experience! I was diagnosed with PN 12 years ago in both legs, but it has become worse this last 2 or 3 years and is very unpleasant now as I am experiencing a lot of pain, and swelling that doesn't really go down overnight any more. I am 85 years of age, use a wheelie walker which keeps me mobile. My sleep is affected and I have started taking a low dose of amitriptyline tablets which although helps with sleeping, does nothing for the pain. I realize there's nothing can be done at this stage, other that keep on keeping on!
Patricia Logsdon Bergmann
I had RLS for years, then read about a simple fix and it really worked. Put a bar of the original Irish Spring soap under your bottom sheet in the vicinity of your legs. Its a miracle and I am so thankful! Its easy to travel with a bar of soap too, just use it the same way in your hotel bed.
Marina Bull
Where would you buy this soap.I have never heard of it.
SM
Soft wool socks in bed at night can keep feet warm as can sheepskin slippers for wear around the house during the day. Though sheepkin my be pricey it is wll worth it to have warm feet and sheepskin pile naturally wicks away moisture and reduces prospect of skin breakdown.
Vivian Walz
I was having so many problems with restless legs; and I finally got a prescription from my doctor, a very small pill that I take every night, and it has really done the tick. It's Pramipexole, 0.125. I also take two capsules of a sleeping pill. In this case it's Advanced Bionutritionals, Pure Sleep (Supports Restful Sleep").Then with my Sutera pillow, I sleep very well. But I do have to get up during the night to go to the bathroom; but back to bed and sleep. I am 97 years old (not young!!). But I'm hoping to strengthen my legs. Too many supplements that might help have magnesium stearate in Other Ingredients, and I cannot take any supplement that has that; and no company should use it, but they do NOT listen to me, unfortunately.
Glenda Boatwright
I am 75 years old. I've had neuropathy for over 15 years. I take Alpha Lipoic Acid 600 mg. and B vitamins. also rub a mixture of essential oils on my feet at night. I now started to have the pain and numbness in my hands & fingers. Pain is so bad that I have to get up early in the mornings.
Patty mcbee
What essential oils do you mix together.
John Thau
Try this lay on your back on a flat surface, stress yourself tight for about 5 to 10 secs with eyes closed and arms and hands at side tightly fisted and curled toes, take a breath and hold for the 5-10 secs. Then let everything relax then repeat procedure with less intensity each time you stress until you're in a state of relaxation where you stress to the point you dont move or stress anything and can only sense your blood flow. Then close your eyes and dream softly. Pleasant dreams and sleep well.
Terry Draheim
I take 1200 mc of Alfa lipoic acid about 1 hr before bed. It’s a supplement. It helps calm the nerves. Been taking it for years.
PHIL CHIZUM
I have had neuropathy in my feet for the last 6 years from back surgery. I am trying a machine called reverse hyper. Google it to read more about it. It decompresses your spine and builds strength in your glutes and hip flexors which may be compressing the nerves going to my feet. Been using for a week now, getting slightly better. Good luck, nueropathy is difficult to deal with. I have to take Gabapentin to sleep.
Louise
What is Vickey Vapor? Thanks
Mario colicchio
I am a stroke survivor, eight years now. Have developed neuropathy in legs and feet, cant sleep. Using gabapentin cream , helped at first, now using cymbalta, epsom salts soak, warming feet, nothing is fixing or improving pains. Better sitting up than laying down. Anyone who develops a cure would be a hero for sure.
Been told grin and bear it, but can only do that so long.
Jonathan spikes
I. Have suffered with this for about three years .I cannot remember why it started . I tried having needles in my legs and it certainly stopped the pain in one leg .but in the left leg. It is still quite painful so when it occurs I hang the leg out of. bed or get out of bed and put my feet on the floor which is cold board that always gives relief but it takes about 10 mins to work and of course. then I am awake so I usually make a cup of camomile tea which usually works l have PSP which means I cannot walk or write so I am in a
A. Chesley
I am 60 years old and about to lose my mind with pain in my feet. I take gabapentin, which helps a little. NOTHING else I've tried helps. I have read all of the comments and will try some of them. Thank you!
ed killian
I am fortunate that I don't have diabetic neuropathy and only feel my nerves in the legs and feet 'buzzing" on occasion.
However... I have been told it might be causing my tinnitus to get worse.
Thomas Hoppet
I’m a retired Neuroscience RN/ICU/ED…,my horrible FN started about 3 years ago ( I’m currently 74). Yup, I have spinal stenosis and now developed spondylolisthesis on my I tire lumber spine vertebrae . Absolutely misery trying to sleep with the pins/needles ALL NIGHT LONG ..,only mediocre relief is a king pillow under my knees and 30-45 mins using that new Ryoku T.E.N.S Matt. Not bad
Richard
I nailed six scrub brushes I bought at the dollar store to the end of my bed ( three on top three below) and when I,m hurting I rub my feet on it WOW problem solved