Peripheral Neuropathy Ayurvedic Treatment

The damage of peripheral nerves (the nerves outside brain and spinal cord) is called peripheral neuropathy, and the usually affected part is limbs. Peripheral nervous system passes the information from central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to other body parts, and send sensory messages (from outside the body) to brain and spinal cord in return. The common causes are infection, injury, certain diseases like diabetes/ bone marrow disorders, autoimmune conditions (eg: Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis etc), exposure to toxic substances, vitamin deficiencies, certain medication, alcoholism etc.

Peripheral Neuropathy Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may differ from person to person as the function of each nerve in this system is different. The nerve may be a) sensory type- that receives sensations of pain/ temperature/ touch etc, b) motor type- that controls muscle movements, or c) autonomic type- that control bodily functions which are not voluntary such as heart beat, digestion etc. the common symptoms include stabbing/ throbbing pain, increased pain sensation, muscle weakness, numbness of arms/ legs which gradually spread to other body parts, increased sensitivity to touch, feeling of absence of body parts, lack of coordination, paralysis etc. If autonomic nerves are involved, the person experiences reduced blood pressure, bowel and bladder problems, excess sweating, digestive issues etc.

Peripheral Neuropathy Ayurvedic Analysis

Aggravated vata causes pain, numbness, feeling of absence of body parts, loss of function etc. This condition comes under the umbrella of ‘vatavyadhi’ (diseases caused by aggravated vata). Other similar condition is ‘avarana vata’ (functions of vata masked by other elements).

Peripheral Neuropathy Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Vata is aggravated by excess intake of bitter/ astringent/ pungent tastes, very little food, late food, cold food, dry food etc; altered; injuries; trauma; over-exertion; excessive exposure to cold; day sleep; chronic diseases (like diabetes); infection etc.

Possible Complications in Peripheral Neuropathy Disease

Peripheral neuropathy for a long period causes falls, injuries, burns, infections etc due to lack of sensation and coordination.

Other systemic diseases and precautions to be taken

Other conditions that can lead to peripheral neuropathy are repeated movements of the body parts, family history, infections, vitamin deficiency, kidney/liver/ thyroid disorders etc.

Peripheral Neuropathy Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

The management include pacification of vata. Internal medications are enough in some cases, but others need hospitalization to perform snehana (oil massage/ intake of suitable ghee), swedana (eg: kizhi, pizhichil, steam bath), nasya, virechana, vasthi, lepana (external application of powdered medicine over the affected part) etc.

Diet

Include more green vegetables, whole grains, fruits, nuts etc in diet that may not vitiate vata. Avoid the consumption of light food, cold food items, curd, peas etc.

Exercise

Indulge in mild to moderate exercise that involve the minor joints. Yoga and pranayama help a lot to reduce the symptoms. In those conditions developed due to repeated movements, exercise is prohibited and proper rest is needed.

Peripheral Neuropathy Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

Manage the underlying disease effectively. Avoid over-exertion. Exercise regularly. Consume healthy food that prevents vata vitiation. Ensure adequate sleep. Avoid stress, anxiety etc. Apply suitable oil all over the body and bah in warm water at least twice a week. Practice yoga, pranayama and meditation to balance the function of nerves.