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Navigating the Holidays with Neuropathy: Tips for a Pain-Free Season
More than 13% of people in the United States have neuropathy, which commonly affects the hands and feet. Numbness, tingling, and burning pain don’t exactly pair well with holiday cheer, but they don’t have to steal your joy.
Whether you're hosting, traveling, or simply trying to make it through December without a flare-up, learn to keep your nerves calm and your spirits bright with these practical tips from Jason Armstrong, DPM, who helps patients manage neuropathy in and near Shenandoah and Humble, Texas.
Neuropathy symptoms to watch for
If you experience any of these neuropathy symptoms, see Dr. Armstrong for an evaluation:
- Burning
- Numbness
- Prickling
- Tingling
- Pain
- Throbbing discomfort
- Frequent falls
- Lack of coordination
- Feeling like you’re wearing socks when you’re not
- Muscle weakness
- Balance problems
- Muscle spasms
You might also develop bowel or bladder problems, digestive issues, low blood pressure, lightheadedness, dizziness, heat intolerance, or sweating more or less than usual because of neuropathy.
5 ways to navigate neuropathy during the holidays
Take the following precautions to minimize neuropathy symptoms this holiday season and beyond:
1. Effectively manage diabetes
It’s often more difficult to control blood sugar and effectively manage diabetes during the holiday season, but doing so helps reduce the risk of worsening neuropathy and foot problems associated with it.
Check your blood sugar regularly and avoid overindulging in carbohydrates. Gravitate toward lean protein foods and heart-healthy plant fats. Choose fiber-rich carbs (whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds) over sugary treats, sugar-sweetened drinks, white bread, and other refined grains.
2. Wear comfortable and warm shoes
While it may be tempting to put on high heels or other dress shoes this holiday season, resist the urge to wear uncomfortable footwear. Ill-fitted shoes often boost neuropathy-related pain and the risk of falls, especially during the colder months. Warmth and comfort are key this holiday season. Dr. Armstrong offers custom orthotics and prescription shoes if you need them.
3. Limit or nix alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake can reduce essential vitamin absorption and may worsen nerve damage and pain. If you don’t currently drink alcohol, don’t start. If you choose to drink during the holidays, do so in moderation (small amounts) to best manage neuropathy-related foot discomfort. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
4. Boost vitamins and minerals
Low levels of vitamins and minerals can take a toll on nerve health. Ask Dr. Armstrong about taking a multivitamin supplement rich in B vitamins, vitamin E, copper, and other essential micronutrients. It’s also helpful to consume a nutritious, well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, plant fats, and protein-rich foods.
5. Ask about TENS
Dr. Armstrong offers transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), a treatment that uses low-voltage electrical currents to ease pain caused by neuropathy. He uses a small device to deliver the currents to your feet, targeting damaged nerves to relieve your discomfort. TENS and similar treatments can help you enjoy a pain-free holiday season.
Get evaluated for neuropathy
If you’re at risk of peripheral neuropathy because of diabetes or other chronic diseases, alcoholism, repetitive strain, or a family history of neuropathy, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Armstrong. He can detect or rule out foot and ankle concerns, ease any pain, and reduce your risk of worsening nerve problems during the holidays.
See Dr. Armstrong routinely if you’ve been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy to help manage your condition, stay comfortable, maximize mobility, and avoid complications.
Schedule a neuropathy evaluation with Jason Armstrong, DPM, to determine if you’re a candidate for treatment. Contact us today by phone or request an appointment online.