Neuropathy Treatment Options at Our San Marcos Pain Clinic
Managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the pain and the underlying factors that drive it. At Greater Austin Pain Center's San Marcos pain clinic, our team works with each patient to develop an individualized treatment plan. Care for DPN may include several complementary components:
Blood sugar management forms the foundation of any effective neuropathy treatment plan. Keeping blood glucose within a healthy range, through medication, dietary adjustments, and regular physical activity, can help slow the progression of nerve damage. For patients whose primary care physician or endocrinologist is already guiding this aspect of their care, GAPC coordinates alongside those providers.
Medication for pain relief is often an important part of managing the chronic pain and discomfort of DPN. Anticonvulsants such as gabapentin and pregabalin, certain antidepressants, and topical treatments may help reduce nerve-related pain symptoms. Your care team will discuss which options are appropriate based on your individual situation.
Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise, a balanced low-sugar diet, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol intake, can support both blood sugar control and circulation, two factors that directly affect neuropathy symptoms and overall health.
Foot care is a critical but sometimes overlooked part of DPN management. Routine inspection of the feet for sores, blisters, or signs of infection, combined with proper hygiene and well-fitting footwear, can help prevent complications that often arise when numbness reduces a patient's awareness of foot injuries.
For patients whose pain relief is not adequately achieved through these measures, interventional procedures may offer additional benefit. Nerve Blocks use local anesthetic injections to help interrupt pain signals from affected nerves. Spinal Cord Stimulators involve an implanted device that modifies the way pain signals are sent to the brain, and may be appropriate for select patients with refractory neuropathic pain. Peripheral Nerve Stimulation is another interventional option that targets specific nerves involved in pain transmission and may benefit some patients with peripheral neuropathy. Your specialist at our San Marcos pain clinic will help determine which treatment options align with your clinical picture and goals.