I had read several posts both here and at other sites that recommended capsaicin products for PN. I had some old Emu & MSM cream lying around and I noticed it had capsaicin in it. I tried it and did get mild relief so I thought that maybe capsaicin might be helpful. However, years ago I had tried capsaicin for a muscle problem and I found the burning from the cream made the situation worse. Being skeptical I diluted a portion of the capsaicin cream with skin cream, about 50-50, and applied some to my right foot. I had only had a mild burning sensation and it did seem to give me some relief. I then applied it to my left foot right out of the tube. Bad mistake! My foot feels worse that it ever did with the PN. I will go back to the Emu/MSM cream.
As for other things that help, I found some relief for when I get the cold sensation with a pair of microwavable slippers. Neurontin does take the edge off the pain for me. I found a double sole crew sock and the better quality New Balance walking shoes also helps.
I was going to buy a gadget called the Rebuilder, but then I came across a medical site where a MD said it would not work. I passed on it.
I would like to read about anything for PN that anybody has tired whether it worked or not.
Thanks, Don

I had read several posts both here and at other sites that recommended capsaicin products for PN. I had some old Emu & MSM cream lying around and I noticed it had capsaicin in it. I tried it and did get mild relief so I thought that maybe capsaicin might be helpful. However, years ago I had tried capsaicin for a muscle problem and I found the burning from the cream made the situation worse. Being skeptical I diluted a portion of the capsaicin cream with skin cream, about 50-50, and applied some to my right foot. I had only had a mild burning sensation and it did seem to give me some relief. I then applied it to my left foot right out of the tube. Bad mistake! My foot feels worse that it ever did with the PN. I will go back to the Emu/MSM cream.
As for other things that help, I found some relief for when I get the cold sensation with a pair of microwavable slippers. Neurontin does take the edge off the pain for me. I found a double sole crew sock and the better quality New Balance walking shoes also helps.
I was going to buy a gadget called the Rebuilder, but then I came across a medical site where a MD said it would not work. I passed on it.
I would like to read about anything for PN that anybody has tired whether it worked or not.
Thanks, Don

hi..this is the woondog. I've had pn a very long time. Capasacin made
my condition much worse and so I stopped using it. My doctor informed
me that it has a spotty performance record. I used neuronton for about
7 years. one of the side effects, is that it could make you shake..like
a palsy. That happened to me. Now I use Nortryptiline and dilaudid and
my pain has disappeared for the last month. No more pain and it is
wonderful. I should tell you that I run on the treadmill two hours a day
am and then later in the evening, one hour each time. I think that also
helps. And since I have diabetic pn, I avoid a lot of carbs or sugar or stuff.
Feel better,woondog

woondog,
I am a little too old to run but I do find walking helps ease the PN pain. On days I don't walk I find the pain is worse, so I try to walk at least a mile a day. However, during a garage sale I found myself on my feet for many hours and the PN pain became severe. For me, a little walking helps but too much will make it worse.

woondog,
I am a little too old to run but I do find walking helps ease the PN pain. On days I don't walk I find the pain is worse, so I try to walk at least a mile a day. However, during a garage sale I found myself on my feet for many hours and the PN pain became severe. For me, a little walking helps but too much will make it worse.

this is the woondog. YOu don't have to run but you should walk a little
more every day, and a little faster. You need to challenge yourself
so that you don't fall into a rut. Keep notes on distance and speed.
When I started running (slow) about 20 years ago, I could hardly
do one block without giving up because of the pain. I weighed
280 lbs. Now I weigh 175. I am going to be 70.
Also, it is very important to have your mind engaged in something that
will take your mind off your pain. When I am on the treadmill, I have no
pain that I know of .........and so, I am relieved rather than staying
in bed and suffering.
standing and walking are two different things and yes, when I used to
stand a lot, I did get the pain. But walking is different.
if you have diabetic pn, do not drink any diet beverages with aspertagne
which I don't know how to spell. It definitly will cause you pain.
Only but diet sodas with "splenda" or, by its other name, sucralose.
Keep cheese to a minimum because that is another pn trigger. Take
it from me. But I must say that since I don't know the origin of your
pn, perhaps the last few statements I made are not for you.
The woondog knows how you suffer. Say a prayer. woondog

woondog
Thanks for the info. Anything is worth exploring as medicine has little to offer.