Does B-12 work for neuropathy?

Yes, Vitamin B12 can effectively help with neuropathy, especially if deficiency is the cause, by repairing nerve myelin sheaths, improving nerve regeneration, and reducing pain, with studies showing benefits for diabetic, chemotherapy-induced, and general neuropathic pain, often better with injections than oral forms for absorption.

Can B12 fix neuropathy?

B12 neuropathy treatment focuses on restoring deficient levels, often with B12 injections for better absorption, alongside dietary changes (meat, dairy, fortified foods) to repair nerve damage, reduce pain (tingling, burning), and support myelin sheath maintenance, sometimes combined with other B vitamins (like B1/Thiamine) or antioxidants like Alpha-Lipoic Acid for enhanced effects. Early intervention is key, but always consult a doctor to determine the right dosage and treatment plan, as severe deficiencies or underlying causes (like diabetes) require professional management.
 

How long does it take for B12 to help neuropathy?

Vitamin B12 can start helping neuropathy symptoms like tingling and fatigue within days to weeks, with noticeable improvements in sensation, pain, and balance often seen in 1 to 3 months, and significant recovery potentially taking 6 months or more, but complete nerve repair and long-term function recovery can be a gradual process, with some damage potentially being permanent if the deficiency was long-standing. 

What is the most successful treatment for neuropathy?

There's no single "most successful" treatment for neuropathy, as effectiveness varies, but commonly used effective options include anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin), certain antidepressants (duloxetine, nortriptyline, amitriptyline), and topical treatments like capsaicin/lidocaine patches, often combined with physical therapy, exercise, and addressing the underlying cause (like diabetes) for best results. A 2020 study found nortriptyline among the most effective medications, while non-drug therapies like PT and acupuncture also offer significant relief. 

How much B12 should I take to help with neuropathy?

Take 1000-5000mcg daily of the active forms of B12 (methyl-cobalamin and adenysl-cobalamin) for 1 month and then re-assess symptoms. Vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B6 work together with B12, supplementing these at the same time often gives better results.

How Much B12 is TOO MUCH? - The Nerve Doctors

What are the early signs of B12 deficiency?

Early B12 deficiency signs often include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, shortness of breath, headaches, and a sore, smooth tongue, but can also manifest as neurological issues like tingling (pins and needles) and memory problems, alongside mood changes (depression, irritability). Because symptoms develop slowly and mimic other conditions, prompt medical evaluation with a blood test is crucial for proper diagnosis and to prevent potentially irreversible nerve damage, notes the NHS, the Cleveland Clinic, and WebMD. 

What do podiatrists recommend for neuropathy?

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Your podiatrist might recommend exercises to help with your neuropathy. These exercises can improve blood flow to your feet, which is important for nerve health. They can also help maintain muscle strength and flexibility in your feet and ankles.

What triggers neuropathy to flare up?

Neuropathy flare-ups are triggered by poor blood sugar control, stress, cold/heat, physical inactivity, certain medications, alcohol, infections, and autoimmune issues, causing increased pain, numbness, or burning, often worsened at night, and can be managed by controlling underlying conditions, diet, and lifestyle changes like staying warm and active. 

How did I cured neuropathy in my feet?

How is peripheral neuropathy treated, and is there a cure?

1. Medications. Many medications can treat peripheral nervous system problems. ...
2. Surgery. Surgery can help reconnect cut nerves and relieve pain due to trapped nerves. ...
3. Physical therapy. ...
4. Devices and wearable equipment. ...
5. Podiatry and foot care. ...
6. Other pain treatments.

What is the best form of B12 for neuropathy?

For neuropathy, especially if deficient, methylcobalamin (activated B12) is often preferred for nerve repair, but cyanocobalamin in B-complexes also shows benefit, working with other B vitamins (B1, B6) for nerve health, though high B6 can be harmful. The best approach is to consult a doctor to test your levels and get a personalized plan, as some studies show supplements only help deficiency, while others find benefit for pain relief, with injections potentially more effective than oral forms for some.
 

Does foot neuropathy ever go away?

Foot neuropathy can sometimes go away or significantly improve, especially if caught early and the underlying cause (like vitamin deficiency, injury, or infection) is treated, but severe or long-term nerve damage is often permanent, requiring management to stop progression and relieve symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness. Early diagnosis and treating the root cause are crucial for the best outcomes, as untreated neuropathy usually worsens, though some advanced treatments aim to reverse damage and restore function. 

What happens to your body when you start taking vitamin B12?

Taking Vitamin B12 helps your body create red blood cells, synthesize DNA, support nerve function (myelin sheath), convert food to energy, and maintain brain health, mood, and focus, preventing fatigue and anemia, with effects like increased energy and clarity often felt if deficient, but very high doses can have side effects like headaches or nausea.
 

What are the negatives to taking B12?

While generally safe, excessive Vitamin B12 intake or deficiency can cause issues; disadvantages of excess B12 (usually from supplements) include headaches, acne, diarrhea, potential increased cancer/mortality risks, and heart issues, while deficiency leads to neurological problems (memory loss, tingling), fatigue, anemia, and mood changes, with some deficiency symptoms potentially becoming permanent. 

What triggers neuropathy in the feet?

Neuropathy in the feet is triggered by nerve damage from various issues, most commonly diabetes (high blood sugar), but also physical injuries, autoimmune diseases (like lupus, RA), infections (shingles, HIV), kidney/liver disease, vitamin deficiencies (especially B vitamins), excessive alcohol, and certain medications or toxins. It can also stem from inherited disorders or pressure on nerves.
 

What drink is good for neuropathy?

For neuropathy, focus on water for hydration, antioxidant-rich drinks like berry smoothies with spinach/flax, and herbal teas (ginger, turmeric) for anti-inflammatory support, while limiting dehydrating alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks that worsen nerve pain. Staying hydrated with water and electrolytes (coconut water) is crucial for nerve health, along with nutrient-dense options that provide antioxidants (Vitamin C from citrus), Omega-3s, and B vitamins. 

What are you lacking if you have neuropathy?

Neuropathy, or nerve damage, can be caused by deficiencies in several key nutrients, most notably Vitamin B12, but also others like B1 (Thiamine), B6, B9 (Folate), B5, Copper, and Vitamin E, with poor nutrition or alcoholism often underlying these shortages. These deficiencies disrupt nerve function and structure, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness, with B12 deficiency being a common culprit, especially in older adults or those with absorption issues.
 

Is walking good for neuropathy?

Yes, walking is generally very good for neuropathy as a low-impact exercise that boosts circulation, helps control blood sugar, reduces inflammation, strengthens muscles, and improves balance, but it's crucial to walk safely with proper precautions like supportive footwear to prevent injuries, especially with reduced sensation in the feet. 

What are 7 foods that may heal nerve damage?

Foods That May Heal Nerve Damage

• Leafy Greens: Your Nerve's Best Friend. ...
• Fatty Fish: Omega-3 Boost for Nerve Regeneration. ...
• Nuts and Seeds: The Power of Vitamin E. ...
• Avocados: Rich in Healthy Fats and Potassium. ...
• Turmeric: Nature's Anti-Inflammatory Spice. ...
• Dark Chocolate: Indulge for Nerve Health. ...
• Berries: Antioxidant Powerhouses.

What is the newest treatment for neuropathy in your feet?

New treatments for foot neuropathy focus on blocking pain signals, stimulating nerve repair, and improving function, with options like Scrambler (Calmare) therapy, Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS), advanced laser/shockwave therapies (EPAT, MLS Laser), new drug classes targeting sodium channels, and potential stem cell therapies, offering alternatives to traditional medications for managing debilitating nerve pain and numbness, notes Mayo Clinic, Elevation Health Center, Neuro Injury Specialists. 

What is often mistaken for neuropathy?

Conditions like radiculopathy (pinched spinal nerve), fibromyalgia, MS, vascular issues (PAD), and even vitamin deficiencies (B12) often mimic neuropathy's tingling, numbness, and pain, causing confusion because they share similar symptoms (weakness, burning) but affect different nerve systems (peripheral vs. central/spinal) or have distinct patterns, making correct diagnosis by a doctor crucial. 

What is the best thing to put on your feet for neuropathy?

The best things for foot neuropathy involve a mix of medical care, lifestyle changes, and home remedies, focusing on physical therapy (balance, strength), regular low-impact exercise (walking, swimming), proper foot care (supportive shoes, checking for injuries), topical treatments (lidocaine, capsaicin), diet changes (B vitamins, less alcohol), and potentially prescription meds, all aimed at managing pain and improving nerve health.
 

What do you crave when your B12 is low?

B12 deficiency can cause specific food cravings, particularly for meat, fish, or eggs, as your body seeks sources of the vitamin, and may also lead to sugar cravings due to its role in serotonin and energy regulation, but it can also manifest as pica (craving non-food items like ice or even bleach in severe cases). These cravings signal your body trying to correct a nutrient imbalance, but clinical testing is needed for a proper diagnosis, as emotional factors also drive cravings. 

What are the facial signs of B12 deficiency?

Cutaneous manifestations associated with vitamin B12 deficiency are skin hyperpigmentation, vitiligo, angular stomatitis, and hair changes. A diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency is often overlooked in its early stages because these signs are not specific to vitamin B12 deficiency alone.

What food is highest in B12?

The foods highest in Vitamin B12 are organ meats (like liver and kidney) and shellfish (especially clams), offering thousands of percent of the daily value in small servings, with fortified cereals, dairy, fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), and eggs also being excellent sources. For vegans, fortified foods like nutritional yeast and plant milks are key, as B12 is naturally found in animal products.