The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Danielle Renee (Ocean Shores, Wa) on 10/09/2012
★★★★★
I want to share how beautifully Alpha Lipoic Acid has worked for Diabetic Neuropathy pains. I take 300mgs three times a day and it has taken the burning and sharp shooting pains away, and my blood sugars and H1C are a lot lower. I consider it a miracle supplement.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 10/08/2012
I had to go back on Lyrica after two days without it due to the increased volume of my tinnitus and a very chilled feeling in feet and legs up to my mid thigh area. Has anyone else experienced this as the pain of neuropathy dissipates and/or found something that helps for it? The Lyrica affects my vision and I am unable to take gabapentin due to how it increases my blood sugar. Any substitute would be appreciated or even knowledge that more time on ALA & ALC would improve it.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 10/07/2012
I have now been using ALA for just five weeks and am off all pain medications now. I stopped taking Lyrica for numbness and pain blocking yesterday. I am anticipating a full recovery very soon.
I do have a question about the acetyl-l-carnitine. I am wondering if it would be better to take it a few hours prior to the ALA or a few hours after as my research tells me that it helps to absorb the ALA and other nutrients. There was also mention that it heals the "hairs" in your digestive tract. Perhaps it should be taken before bed with minimal liquid and allowed to stay in your digestive tract for a prolonged period for best results. Can anyone expound on this topic?
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/18/2012
Bill, not only is my blood pressure good, but my good cholesterol is high and my bad cholesterol is low. I believe it is a result of trimming fat from food since I was young. I do not butter bread and I trim the fat from bacon as well as cooking with water, skinning poultry before cooking and eating lots of vegetables.
Timh, I have tried CoQ10 and felt no change in my health. I have no idea if it did me any good or not but I am in a very tight financial situation so even getting ALA & ALCAR & Benfotiamine means putting off paying utility bills. My monthly budget for everything comes out of an income of less than Canadian $900. That has to cover maintaining a home(paid for) and maintaining, licencing and fueling a vehicle as I live 45 miles from the nearest city. I am hoping that the improvements I have seen so far continue at the same rate and allow me to get back to work and my normal income quite soon.
I am seeing a small improvement with the benfotiamine and a significant improvement with ALCAR but the ALA is just phenomenal. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky, Usa) on 09/17/2012 2048 posts
Al, thanks for your informative responses. As for ALA, I don't think it's endogenous in foods as it is a coenzyme that the body creates from nutrients like B vitamins and sulfur amino acids like Cysteine, as well as some minerals. Another coenzyme you might want to consider supplementing is CoQ10 or Ubiquinol as it works in the body differently than ALA, especially for heart health.
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/16/2012
Gatordennis, I have used grapeseed extract, curcumin (an extract of turmeric), gabapentin/Lyrica, alpha lipoic acid, acetyl-l-carnitine, hydromorphcontin and morphine. Nothing has worked as good as ALA and ALCAR although grapeseed extract reduced the need for narcotics ALA and ALCAR ELIMINATED THE NEED FOR NARCOTICS. I still use Lyrica but hope to be off of it soon and just started using benfotiamine. Just a note to those with gluten intolerance, my wife was diagnosed with celiac disease and I had just heard about an old variety of wheat that could be tolerated by celiac's. I bought some whole grain flour made from "RED FIFE" wheat and six months later she had no further indication of celiac disease. Seems the old varieties of wheat have different composition of glutens/proteins that make a difference. My supplier tells me that "MARQUIS" wheat is quite similar and is showing the same results. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 09/16/2012
Hi Al... I am 196 pounds and also 6 feet in height. My blood pressure is currently 110 (systolic) and 70 (diastolic). Since I started taking higher orthomolecular dosages of niacin, my blood pressure hasn't changed at all (I measure it myself every week). This is in line with what Abram Hoffer has said in his articles -- he maintains that particularly niacin (not niacinamide) balances high cholesterol and high blood pressure safely and I guess my experience with niacin is a confirmation of that. For blood pressure/cholesterol problems niacin is the one to supplement.
I take orthomolecular doses of niacin because it is anti-aging and helps so many other processes in the body (together with the rest of the B vits). Abram Hoffer was also sure that you would live longer if you took proper orthomolecular dosages of niacin every day. For most of his life, Hoffer also admits that he took between 0. 5 and 6 grams of niacin/niacinamide himself daily and he lived to the ripe age of 92. He has also documented that taking 0. 5 to 3 grams of niacin/niacinamide is the proper orthomolecular dose for a healthy person, depending on how good your diet is.
The current RDA recommendations for vitamin B3 is about 16 mgs a day.
Grape Seed Extract
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/16/2012
Amanda from Europe, I took one teaspoon of grapeseed oil three times per day to start and then switched to grapeseed extract caplets, 50 mg 3 times/day and increased to 100mg 3 times/day because of the results. I have since gone back to 50 mg 3 times/day since I started on ALA. We are now cooking exclusively with grapeseed oil. It has zero cholesterol. Al
B12
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/16/2012
Kate, I have noticed that if the pain is less when you wake up in the morning that it is often an indication of too large a dosage of something and so would reduce one item at a time until I found the culprit and then put everything else back to normal dose and reduce or eliminate the one that caused the problem. When things get worse we need to experiment a bit. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/16/2012
First, Bill, my blood pressure is normal as for an 18 year old @ 160 pounds and I am 6 feet tall, 330 lbs and 53 years old. I do not feel it would be right for me to take anything that would lower my blood pressure. What would you say to that re: niacin?
Tim, we are both taking 250 mg of ALA twice daily. I also started taking 500 mg of ALCAR twice daily yesterday and it seems to be helping.
Something quite interesting, when my dad stocked up on Wednesday the supplier told him that ALA would stop Alzhymer's disease immediately. Had we known about that sooner one of my aunts would still be with us. Have also heard that coconut oil helps Alzhymer's disease. Does anyone know if coconut oil contains ALA. If so it would probably be an excellent topical for neuropathy. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky, Usa) on 09/15/2012 2048 posts
Al, good to hear of you and your dad's success with ALA; and it's good for immune system, blood sugar, and liver health. Please specify how many mg dose? how many times daily? as it can help set a standard for other interested users.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/14/2012
I got my dad, 75 years old, started on ALA on Sunday, 9 September 2012 and he is already seeing enough improvement that he went to town yesterday and bought enough for four months. He has had increasing levels of pain in his feet for years (cause not known) and has been using full leg air pressure massage for four hours a day for years to remain walking. He is talking about being able to discontinue that therapy and it has only been five days to get to that point. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/14/2012
★★★★☆
I am amazed at how good this is working. After 13 days of taking alpha lipoic acid I have had my pain reduced enough to quit taking hydro morph contin and I actually have less pain and numbness now than when I started taking ALA even with being off the narcotic pain killers. I am picking up my benfotiamine and acetyl-l-Carnitine on Friday the 14th. If it helps even half as much as the ALA I will be back to work in a few weeks. We need to make chemo patients aware of this as much as possible. Al
Grape Seed Extract
Posted by Amanda (Europe, Europer) on 09/13/2012
Hi, Can you confirm whether you take grape seed oil, grape seed extract and whether you take it in capsule or liquid form. Thanks
Grape Seed Extract
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/12/2012
★★★★☆
The first natural product/supplement that I tried for peripheral neuropathy (caused by oxaliplatin in chemotherapy) was grapeseed oil and then grapeseed extract in a caplet form with excellent results that allowed me to reduce the amount of hydro morph contin that I was taking by about 40%.
I have told others about it and most that tried the liquid form had stomach upset from it.
I use 50-100 mg three times per day.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk.,canada) on 09/11/2012
I know about flax seed oil. It requires the protein that is in cottage cheese to be mixed with it before consuming to get the maximum benefits. I was at stage 3 with colon cancer when I had the tumour removed and shortly after went on the "Budwig Diet" which is based on flax seed oil(3 tbsp) and cottage cheese(1/2 cup) once daily. I blended them together and added liquid honey and cocoa powder to taste with some extra liquid to make a smoothy for breakfast. This diet is purported to directly attack cancer. Five weeks later all the oversize lymph nodes were back to normal size(that is when I started chemotherapy). I think this indicated that the cancer was gone and thus the overdose of oxaliplatin which damages nerves and the islands in the pancreas especially with a lack of cancer to attack. I have been cancer free for over two years now and only have to overcome the resulting neuropathy to get back to a productive life. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Sk., Canada) on 09/11/2012
I was trying to find the Gotu Kola herb at the same time as I found the ALA but it seems to be unavailable here (in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan). I had to order acetyl-l-Carnitine and benfotiamine as no one had them in stock but could not order the Gotu Kola. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky, Usa) on 09/04/2012 2048 posts
Al, Zinc is very important for healing to occur throughout the body and also boost immunity. Another very important nutrient is the Omega 3 Fatty Acids like Fish and Krill Oil. Flax Seed Oil is converted into the EFA's that the body needs in order to reduce inflammation and promote healing. A native crop in Canada, you should find Flax Oil readily and at a good price in your grocer.
Hope this helps.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 09/03/2012
Hi Al... I think it would benefit your condition if you also took the whole spectrum of B vitamins (either as B50 or B100 complex or as De-bittered Brewer's Yeast forms) which contain Choline, B3, B6, Folate and many other nutrients which would benefit the CNS system. Higher dose B12 is also beneficial to many body processes including the nervous system. For more on the benefits of B12 read David Brownstein's book --
Vitamin B12 for Health. Adding the Gotu Kola herb and higher dose Vitamin C to your regimen would also help to accelerate nerve repair. Adding higher dose niacin(not niacinamide) would also greatly benefit you blood transport system and make it more efficient. Niacin actually changes and thins out the blood safely and the flushing effect of niacin is evdence that the capillaries and peripheral blood vessels are opening up for better delivery of the nutrients you are taking to the body peripherals -- ie to the hands and feet regions. Take 500 mgs niacin twice a day after meals dissolved in half a glass of water for best absorption into the body.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Al (Alvena, Saskatchewan, Canada) on 09/03/2012
★★★★☆
I developed peripheral neuropathy from an overdose of Oxalyplatin in chemotherapy for stage 3 colon cancer in February of 2010. It affected my upper palate, hands and legs up to my mid thigh. I have been on Gabapentin, 3600 mg/day, for an extended period of time and then found out it was increasing my blood sugar by 15.0 with a single 300 mg dose so was switched to Lyrica instead. I have also been on narcotic pain killers along with the others and at times nothing would touch the pain or numbness and when nerve testing was done the doctors could not believe that I could still walk as there was zero sensory and zero motor nerve conduction. I had to look where I was putting my feet as I could not feel where I was putting them. I have been very slowly and steadily healing in spite of being put into a diabetic condition by the Gabapentin.
I read about alpha Lipoic acid in an article about fat loss/muscle building with a relationship to insulin sensitivity and it listed five ingredients of which ALA was one. When I looked at ALA in the search engine and read that it would cure neuropathy and that it is used to reduce the side effects of Oxaliplatin in chemotherapy I picked some up and started using it on 1 September 2012. I immediately noticed an improvement in my feet( the only currently affected area). It was so dramatic of a change that I discontinued all other medications to see what it did by itself. I have spent a couple of sleepless nights due to pain and have started using my other medications again today. Other than Lyrica and Hydromorph contin I take grape seed extract, fenugreek, St. John's Wort, milk thistle, glucosamine and condroitin sulfate with MSM, vitamin D, B12, curcumin, Motrin, and Apo-Temazepam for a sleeping pill. After less than 4 hours since resuming my other medications with ALA my feet are about 75% better than they were three days ago.
Is there anything else that I should be taking to speed the healing/reduce the pain and numbness? Please reply directly to gustafsonal(at)hotmail.com. Thank you. Al
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Charles555nc (Winston Salem, Nc, Usa) on 08/06/2012
★★★★★
Alpha lipoic acid is a great supplement for neuropathy. However there should be precautions. Only take a max of 100mg alpha lipoic acid every 4 hours, or it will mobilize too much mercury for you to handle.
Alpha Lipoic acid also burns through methylation agents and Zinc. Methyl agents are methyl b12, methyl folate, other b vitamins... so you should supplement with those, periodically, at least 3 hours before and 3 hours after your next dose of ALA.
Acetyl-L Carnitine, Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Posted by Laura (Erie, Co) on 07/29/2012
★★★★★
For 2 years, I was dealing with the pain, shooting sensations, fatigue, electronic vibrations, etc. When my third neurologist said peripheral neuropathy, I found this site, and immediatly began treatment. Because 35% of people with peripheral neuropathy are gluten intolerant, I decided to give this a shot, since diabetes has been ruled out. I have also gone dairy-free, as I've always been a little sensitive to dairy.
After 3 weeks, I already feel so much better, I have stopped taking gabapentin for the pain! There is still a little pain, but the shooting stabbing sensations are gone, and the feeling of restless leg syndrome is gone too.
Here is my daily regimine, specifically:
- 6:00 am 1000 mg acetyl-L-carnitine
- 6:30 am breakfast (gluten free, dairy free), 100 mg R-lipoic acid, vit D supplement, fish oil supplement.
- 10:00 am 1000 acetyl-L-carnitine, empty stomach
- 12:00 pm 1 fish oil supplement, lunch (gluten free, dairy free)
- 2:00 pm 1000 acetyl-L-carnitine
- 5:00 pm dinner (gluten free, dairy free), 1 fish oil supplement, 1 apple cider vinegar
- 9:30 pm 200 mg R-lipoic acid, 1 B complex supplement.
This is a lot, and I wouldn't do this for more than a few months, but it is amazing how much better I feel in just a few weeks. I will follow up in January 2013, with the final results. I hope with positive news that a complete recovery has been made.
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Bill (San Fernando, Philippines) on 07/25/2012
Hi Hertsman... You could do no better than to research everything written on ALA by Dr Burt Berkson. He has been researching ALA since the late 1970s and is now a world authority on the use of Alpha Lipoic Acid.
Dr Berkson also makes mention of the type of ALA that he prefers to use -- and that is the RS form of ALA and not the R form. His reasons for this are simply that to manufacture the R-ALA form entails many more chemical processes and steps than it takes to make the RS-ALA form and therefore the R-ALA form will contain, for instance, more trace hexane as chemical residues which are not good for the liver. The manufactured R-ALA form is also much less stable than the RS-form. The R-ALA form is also about 10 times more expensive than the RS-form.
Dr Berkson also advises that the best and purest forms of RS-ALA are made in Europe and not in America or China -- so a good European brand of RS-ALA is what you should use.
Dr Berkson is well-known for using ALA as an anti-oxidant adjunct in his therapies to help cure cirrhosis, hepatitis and cancers. His record as an honest researcher and doctor speaks for itself.
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Hertsman (Feltham, Middlesex) on 07/24/2012
So many different suggestions on this thread, difficult to know what to try. So many folk talking about feet but can't find any mention of lower back pain neuropathy? The pain is awful, horrible sore pain that won't go away. I've read that r-lipoic acid is better than the standard lipoic acid. Can anyone give advice for nerve pain in lower back. Any help greatly appreciated. Thanks
Acetyl-L Carnitine, Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Posted by Dana (Ashland, Or) on 05/30/2012
Connie from Slc, Utah, thank you for your comments. I have PN, and have adjusted my diet (gluten free, balanced blood sugar) and have added in many supplements recommended on this site. Do you have dosage recommendations on the ones you state can irritate at high dosage?
I have a problem with ALA. Perhaps because it is a chelator, I feel incredibly toxic any time I take it, even very low dose. I am not otherwise sensitive to sulphur as in onions or garlic. How important is ALA to any protocol of supplements? Do you or anyone here have an opinon on that?
Acetyl-L Carnitine, Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Posted by Zanytranscriber (Port Townsend, Wa, Usa) on 05/27/2012
My husband is taking 250 mg of the alpha lipoic acid once a day and the same for the acetyl L-carnitine 500 mg, once a day. If he is having more "sparkles", he will take another of the ALA 250 mg.
Acetyl-L Carnitine, Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Posted by Zanytranscriber (Port Townsend, Wa, Usa) on 05/25/2012
★★★★★
I found this website when looking for info about neuropathy. My husband has had two back surgeries and has suffered with neuropathy ever since, especially his right leg. Most of the time, it feels like it is waking up from being asleep with things that feel like sparkles ALL THE TIME, but sometimes he gets something like electrical shocks that zip down his leg. We got alpha lipoic acid 100 mg and acetyl L-carnitine 500 mg at a local store. He started first with just the ALA one tablet and felt relief the second day. After a few days with just the ALA, we added the acetyl L-carnitine. He is able to sleep at night, and even if he has been really active and his leg is doing really badly, it doesn't take as long for the shocks to go away. He has been able to stop taking Neurontin, Methocarbamol, Xanax, etc and is much more active. We tell everyone about this combination, even our chiropractor and MD. We also tell them about the website. Thanks so much.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Normared (Knoxville, East Tennessee, Us) on 05/03/2012
★★★★★
After a bad two-week long spell of sharp, needle-like pain in my feet I looked at this site for advice. At my next doctors appointment a few days later, I checked with him for his opinion, and based on that added ALA to my treatment (which was metanx pills he gave me last year). Within 24 hours of taking one 600 mg tablet of ALA the pains were down by at least 50% intensity, and now a week later they are almost completely gone. A few days ago, I also added a B complex, and plan on adding a B12 lozenge too.
My doctor - a foot doctor who specializes in neuropathy - had no problem with these 'additions', in fact he is the one who suggested B12 in a lozenge form, not a tablet. I'm now a strong believer in taking ALA B vitamins for those pains in my feet!
BTW: Bought my 600mg ALA tabs at GNC - they've got an amazing vanilla flavor and are a pleasure to take! I take 3 per day and a Bcomplex once a day.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Sandy (Detroit, Mi) on 04/30/2012
David,
Have you looked into taking b-12 also? Many are b-12 deficient and the symptoms are linked to this. B-12 is best taken in methyl form (sublingual for over the counter) and/or shot or nasal prescription. Many reasons why this deficiency is very common.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by David (Westford, Ma) on 04/29/2012
★★★★★
I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in November, 2011. The excrutiating burning on the bottoms of my feet had gotten progressively worse and I really thought my days were numbered. The last thing I would ever want to do would be to go on disability but it seemed like that was where I was headed. I have done everything to help myself. Mind/body 8 week course to learn to live with chronic pain, accupuncture, diet, meditation, yoga and more. Three days after I started ALA I thought my pain had started to reduce.
Now 6 weeks later except for minor discomfort now and then I don't think about my feet 24/7 anymore. I actually drove myself to the Museum of Fine Arts and walked around last week for a couple of hours forgetting that a few weeks prior I never could have done that. I feel blessed to have found ALA if this is why I have gotten better. I have also stopped all statins as I tried just about every one of them. I also discontinued amlodipine as the swelling it causes of my feet I was sure was aggravating my pain. I now take 900mg. Per day and wonder if that is too much? I have read many research articles on ALA and they seem to agree that IV ALA does help neuropathy. There don't seem to be any conclusive studies on oral ALA. I am looking to try and find whether ALA can actually cure Neuropathy or if you need to keep taking it?
Turmeric
Posted by Janet (Fernvale, Queensland, Australia) on 04/28/2012
★★★★★
I also swear by Turmeric for Neuropathy, but my understanding is it needs to be heated and taken in conjunction with black pepper for activation. If I have fresh Turmeric I simmer it for approx 10 minutes but if it is powdered making a tea with boiling water is another way to go, I add ginger, black pepper and agave to sweeten and it is a very pleasant drink. I have this drink daily and the pain relief properties are amazing.
B12, Zinc
Posted by Connie (Slc, Utah, Usa) on 04/14/2012
★★★★★
Hi Mark; This doesn't look easy, but I'll put forth some guesses. Zinc may be needed. It is often times low in people who have become ill with cancer and a large variety of infections. Zinc is active throughout the body, including the nerves. The symptoms of zinc deficiency usually include problems with taste and smell, gastrological disturbance, gonadal disturbance, and growth problems, but there can be many more symptoms. Some types that are easier to find are; zinc gluconate and opti-zinc; I have found these to be effective. Also, a food derived zinc may be gentler on the stomach if sub-divided. There's a zinc-l-carnosine type that may also be easier on the stomach. If taken for long term, a small amount of copper may be needed. ( There are cases of neuropathy that were caused by zinc toxicity that then caused a copper deficiency. These cases were the result of extreme amounts of zinc used, however... in the form of denture adhesives.)
Also, some supplements can worsen neuropathy if taken in too high doses for an individual. B1, B6, ALA, Acetyl-L-Carnitine, etc, may cause irritation.
I found B12 to be most effective for my neuropathy, but it took many months to heal... About a year. But I've also found Zinc to be enormously beneficial for nerve healing. It may take a month or so to see results.
MSM, Lecithin
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k.) on 04/14/2012
★★★★★
My other half also suffered with Neuropathy caused by blood sugar. He found most effective relief came from MSM and Lecithin. If you research both these things it's understable why. He's recently also gone onto Amino Acids. Following someone elses recommendation. 99% of the time he is now pain free. If it flares then he goes straight back onto the above. We just wonder if he should take it all the time? He can go long spells with no problems. A friend of mine also tried the MSM after cancer treatments and got instant relief. I do hope this helps you. Good Luck and a speedy recovery.:)
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Timh (Louisville, Ky, Usa) on 03/25/2012 2048 posts
Gatordennis, experiment w/ different medicinal oils like Flax, Borage, Black Currant, Evening Primrose because they influence the body in different ways. Also try an homeopathic nerve tonic. The natural alternative to gabapentin is the amino acid GABA (Gamma Amino Butyric Acid) is very benificial for nerves. Since many cases of PN are caused by some type of toxicity, I would definitely try some detox methods like Oil Pulling, Detox Foot Pads for starters.
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Gatordennis (Bradenton, Fl) on 03/24/2012
I just finished reading the thread on "Remedies for Severe Neuropathy" where I noted the many cure/relief suggestions. My pain started in 1 foot 13 years ago before taking statins, moved to both feet, to both lower legs, to both hands, both forearms, both ears, across my face through my cheeks over the last 13 years. It is like my feet are freezing to death while they are setting in a campfire.
I asked doctors if it could come from fire ant bites, walking barefoot on new Berber (contains (formaldehyde), insecticides/herbicides, & every thing else I could think about that may had changed just before the pain started (none of them were accepted as a reason). I often do not feel other pain from cuts, insect bites & etc.
I have been through 3 neurologists & 2 nerve tests - no help. The prescribed meds (each one taken 6 weeks) either kept me awake for days, slept for days while getting no relief from the agonizing pain. I do not use caffeine, have been on meat/cheese/leafy vegetable diet for 2 years (no gluten). I have tried MANY salves, even mixed in cayenne pepper (some for race horses & other old time remedies). I take 5000 mg of daily D3 for 2 years now (started with 50, 000 mg of D-2). I take multi-vitamin, fish oil, sublingualB-12, tried the Co-Q 10 for years, etc etc.
Nothing has worked or given relief. My 120 mg of daily Oxycodone (for neuropathy & 3 year back pain) only make life bearable. I relate with all of you for your suffering. I will give Alpha Lipoic Acid & Lecithin a try. I am at my wits ends & getting desperate for anything to cover over the PAIN.
Bulbine
Posted by Jill (Clayton, Ca) on 03/11/2012
★★★★★
I have been suffering from peripherral neuropathy for over 2. 5 years now. Being tired of not finding relief at night, I came up with a solution that works for me. In my garden, I grow Bulbine (very prolific and similar to aloe vera). Since my feet were burning, I thought it might help putting it on my feet. The burning stopped until the gel dried. So, I place several stems of the bulbine between sulifane wrap and roll a rolling pin over until all the gel is squeezed out. Then I wrap my feet before going to bed. In the middle of the night, I have to take the wrap off, but the burning and tingling is minimized greatly for the entire night.
B12 and Metacobalin
Posted by Maria (Gippsland, Australia ) on 02/13/2012
Hi Ms (from Honolulu), If it feels like that they might cramp if you move them any further then I would suggest magnesium. Works for me if my toes feel like or do cramp. Even if it is not cramp it would be worth trying some mag.
B12 and Metacobalin
Posted by Ms (Honolulu, Hawaii) on 02/13/2012
★★★★★
I also took the same Bs as Shrikant (the fat soluble B 12 & Metacobalin) and my neuropathy in both feet that I had for a few years got better THE NEXT 24 hours I could tell - a difference for the better. I am now still on the fat soluble Bs and it has been 1 1/2 years now. The tingling, the extreme sensitivity, the sudden jerking jolts of what felt like electric shocks within my feet are all gone.
Only thing is lately, I have noticed a tightness appearing and I cannot bend back my toes towards me comfortably. Don't know why...
Turmeric
Posted by K (San Antonio, Texas) on 02/10/2012
★★★★★
I belive my neuropathy is caused by a course of Leqavuin 2 years ago. It started with a numb big toe and spread out. I've taken b-12 patches, Alpha Lipoic, Lecithin, MSM, acupuncture, Bach remedies, NAC, but what feels like a cure:
This week
5 pieces of Turmeric juiced into my morning carrot juice, along with 2 packets of Liposomal glutathione.
I actually credit the Turmeric more than the gluathione, but the two in combination are alleviating all my numbness and prickling for the last 7 days.
Acetyl-L Carnitine, Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Posted by Carol (Los Angeles, Ca) on 01/12/2012
★★★★★
I was suffering from continual extreme muscle tightness in my thighs and neuropathy in the top of my foot shortly after I began taking Lipitor. I discontinued the Lipitor after 3 weeks, but was unable to exercise without the pain becoming increasingly worse. I stopped taking the Lipitor but had no improvement in my symptoms whatsoever, so after 6 weeks I broke down and decided to try this combination based on Bill's experience. I began taking 500 mgs of Acetyl-L-Carnitine 1x a day and 100 mgs of R Lipoic Acid 2x a day. (I am a small person, so I take a minimal dose. ) I felt relief within 2 days. Five months later, I am happy to report that I am at 98% of where I was before taking the statin with only the slightest bit of tightness and neuropathy when I exercise hard.
You should always check with your doctor and investigate as much as possible before taking a supplement with a prescription drug or other supplements. I believe my original problem with Lipitor was caused by inadvertently combining it with Red Yeast Rice.
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Juliamary (Johannesburg, South Africa) on 12/09/2011
People who have burning feet - do you realise that it can be caused by too much caffeine? Caffeine prevents the absorption of vitamin B, so that even if you are eating well and having vitamin B supplements, that vitamin B is not being absorbed. The reason why some sufferers are not getting any better when they take various remedies may be because they are drinking eight cups of strong tea or coffee a day! Give it up and see the difference it makes.
Alpha Lipoic Acid, B12
Posted by Shrikant (New York) on 11/15/2011
★★★★★
Hello.... I had feet burning for a long time(2 - 3 years). Earlier to that I found my feet was paining a lot. I am diabetic for the last 30 years. Obviously it should be diabetic neuropathy. Recently I tried Benfontamine (fat soluble Vit B1) 200 mg twice a day alpha lipoic acid 600 mg Methylcobalmin (B12 variety) that aids the process of methylation. I found that the feet burning has been controlled substantially. I used to take alcohol in moderate amount. The day I take alcohol my feet burning erupts and the day I stop it goes away. I think alcohol has something to do with my feet burning and I have now decided to discontinue alcohol altogether! Let us see.
Shrikant
New York
Gluten-Free Diet
Posted by Deb (Wloo, Ia) on 10/27/2011
★★★★★
My ex had severe neuropathy and many more problems. He decided to go on his diet as he found out that he was a celiac at age 55 but didn't bother to follow the diet. :) He finally tried his gluten free diet at 61 and after just two days he felt much better. Now three years later he is 99% better. Doesn't have acid reflux, brain fog, out of breath, tired, pain in feet and legs.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Ale (Cardiff, Uk) on 10/27/2011
Hello Monique,
A friend of mine had a crippling neuropathy in both feet and couldn't even walk. She went to get osteopathic adjustments just once or twice and now the pain is almost completely gone. You might want to find a good osteopath in your area and give it a try. Good luck!
MSM, Lecithin
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k) on 10/26/2011
★★★★★
My partner too suffered with neuropathy, that was till we discovered MSM and Lecithin from his first dose he got almost instant relief. And after only a month or so has never had it back. Hope this helps.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia ) on 10/26/2011
Monique you can try "earthing" for your pain. The most simplest way to do earthing is for you to sit with your feet barefoot on the earth (or grass). You can do some research but I have read it helped someone with neuropathy of the feet.
If it helps you can also back earthing sheets for your bed and even the computer. The best shoes to wear are leather soled shoes because they still earth you to the ground.
Lots of info available on earthing.. May be worth a try... Just sit or outside barefoot and see if it helps. Would love to know how it goes.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Bess (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) on 10/26/2011
Hi Monique - You may want to increase your Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamine - take sublingual tablets) and ensure you take a Vitamin B Complex as well. I've read that Vitamin B12 protects the sheathing surrounding nerve cells and can promote regeneration and growth of nerve cells.
Also, be tested for Vitamin D deficiency (mercola.com or Vitamin D Council have lots of info on this). If you do an Internet search for "vitamin D deficiency neuropathy" you'll find lots of information suggesting you get your Vitamin D levels up. Good luck!
Vitamin B-1 (Benfotiamine)
Posted by Monique (Elllington, Ct) on 10/26/2011
Hi there, I have terrible neuropthy in both feet and the pain has become unbearable. I've tried lots of "cures" and keep searching and researching, It is by no means a cure, but I have been going to the YMCA on Mondays for 1/2 foot massages. It doesn't take away the pain, but there is something about a gentle foot massage that feels good to me. My children, 7 and 8 also massage Mom's feet every night before bedtime. My feet are incredibly sensitive to touch, but just knowing someonone is caring about them helps a tiny bit. I tried to get my insurance to cover the foot massage at the YMCA but of course they wouldn't. Any other suggestions anyone has, would be greatly appreciated. Also, I live in Ellington, CT does anyone know of a support group in my area? I was thinking of starting one myself but don't know the first things and really wonder if I should undetake it with how I feel. I don't want to get together and just complain of our pain but would like it to be a positive forum to exchange helpful hints to one another.
Thanks, Monique
B12
Posted by Monique (Elllington, Ct) on 10/26/2011
Kate, you are not alone. I've had terrible Neoropathy in both feet for 4 1/2 years. Its a terrible way to live. I'm trying to research cures and came across this site. I even had a Spinal Cord Stimulator trial implanted but it didn't work for me. Supposedly though, it helps lots of people. I haven't read many people on this site who have tried it. Also, I guess there is a nerve root stimulator too which is similar and works for 2 out of three people. I went to the Lahey Clininc in Burlington, MA for my SCS. It's something you cna look into. I'm at a point I don't know what else to try, has anyone had luck with acupuncture? I tried it years ago with no sucess but I'm going to try again. I have a 7 and 8 year old to raise and can't go on feeling like I do. I have a high tolerance for pain but it's even more than I can take now. Good luck yo you. Let me know if you find anything out.
Monique
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Posted by Monique (Elllington, Ct) on 10/26/2011
I have extemely severe neuropathy in both feet which is getting worse. I'm scared. I've tried the alpha lipoic acid and acettyl-l-carntine and everthing else too. Nothing, not even pain meds like oxycodone touch the pain. I have a 7 and 8 year old to raise and the pain has become unbearable. Any suggestions from anyone would be greatly appreciated.
B12
Posted by Kate (Avon, Ct, Usa) on 10/21/2011
Hi John,
I can feel your pain.. Literally. I've been suffering from horrific pain in my feet for almost 3 years now. As of the past few weeks, it's began to spread up my legs and I am experiencing stabbing sensations and cramping as well(grrrrr). I have a long history with Lyme Disease and co-infections so since I test negative for literally everything else the docs can come up with, it seems Lyme is the origin.
I have been on Neurontin for as long as Iv'e had this problem and about 6-7 months ago began a strict regimin of ALA, Benfothiamine (600 a day), Acetyl-Carnatine and more. I seemed to hold for a while but now things are exploding and I have no idea why. I have been taking 25mg B12 injection 3x's a week for about 4 weeks now. To no avail (sigh). About 2 weeks ago I decdied to give up carbohydrates in another desperate attempt to stop this incredible pain.
I hope and pray you find relief asap as so many posting here have. I have learned a lot simply by stumbling on this thread so I thank you for that.
A great sight with a TON of info on supplements, etc for neuropathy is "Neuro-talk. " Find the peripheral neuropathy section.. there is a tremendous amount of information to be had and much like here, a tremendous amount of support.
Be well, Kate
