Nerve Health Do’s & Don’ts

Nerve health matters, but solutions aren’t always easy to come by. That’s why patients frequently come from out of state to seek treatment or advice from our podiatrist, Bil Buksh! Unfortunately, they often arrive once an issue has progressed significantly, requiring more time, stress, and skill to treat. Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle wants to empower you early so you don’t end up aching later, so in this blog post, we’re covering the do’s and don’ts of nourishing your nerves, from essential nutrients to lifestyle choices.

Nerve Health: The Do’s

DO Fuel Your Nerves with the Right Nutrients:

Think of these as building blocks for healthy nerve function! If you’re looking for detailed dietary guidance or ways to fix the problem through meal planning, consult our blog on that topic.

More generally speaking, you’ll want to prioritize sources of:

• B Vitamins: Essential for nerve health.
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA): A powerful antioxidant that may protect nerves, especially in diabetic neuropathy.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Magnesium: Crucial for nerve transmission.

DO Make These Lifestyle Choices:

• Exercise Regularly: Improves circulation and delivers vital nutrients to your nerves.
• Manage Blood Sugar (If Diabetic): This is a crucial step to prevent or slow diabetic neuropathy.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Well-fitting shoes that aren’t overly constricting are essential to proper foot health.

Nerve Health: The Don’ts

DON’T Ignore Early Warning Signs:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your feet are not normal. Don’t dismiss these symptoms! Early detection of nerve problems is crucial.

DON’T Self-Treat Without a Diagnosis:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers might mask the symptoms, but they won’t address the underlying cause. See a podiatrist to determine the reason for your nerve pain.

DON’T Smoke:

• Smoking restricts blood flow, depriving nerves of oxygen and nutrients.

DON’T Overdo Alcohol:

• Excessive alcohol consumption can be toxic to nerves. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.

DON’T Go Barefoot:

• This is especially important for those with diabetes. Going barefoot increases the risk of injury, which can be very serious if you have reduced sensation.

Questions? Concerns? We’re happy to assist! Give us a call to discuss your nerve health issues today. We’ll listen carefully to your concerns and give you the answer you’re after.

Bill Buksh, DPM, works alongside his expert medical staff at Edmond Norman Foot & Ankle to offer superior podiatric care to anyone in need. Pairing thorough, comprehensive remedies for common podiatric conditions with unique specialty treatments for nerve pain, he and his team would be delighted to treat your feet. Contact us to schedule your appointment today!