Ergotherapy | Therapy of a polyneuropathy

Ergotherapy

Physiotherapy or occupational therapy should always be used alongside drug treatment. The aim of therapy should be to achieve pain relief on the one hand and to cure malfunctions on the other. These can manifest themselves in many ways.

If, for example, nerves that mediate motor tasks are affected by the neuropathic failures, this can lead to movement disorders and, particularly frequently, gait disorders. A therapy plan must be drawn up for each patient individually. In addition to training certain movement sequences, aids such as splints, walking aids or special footwear can be used. The main focus is on maintaining or restoring everyday abilities in order to promote the patient’s independence. The treating physician should discuss with the patient in detail which goals are to be achieved together.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)

In TENS, electrodes (current connections) are attached to the skin. They should be either in the pain area or over the supplying main nerve. Through low electrical stimulation, which is usually not associated with pain, nerves are activated.

These are located in the spinal cord near the nerve cords that are responsible for the perception of pain. Through the permanent activation of the electrified nerves, the intensity of pain perception decreases in many patients. The result is a longer lasting reduction in pain. In 60 percent of all cases, this method of pain reduction works for patients with various pain syndromes. Even if success is not guaranteed, an attempt should still be made to stimulate the patient, as this does not bring any disadvantages for the patient and is inexpensive.

Nutrition

According to nutrition experts, special nutrition can alleviate the symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy without the use of medication. The aim of the change in diet is to eat only low-fat and vegan food.The blood sugar is to be lowered thus and with this also the weight of the patients. Possible vitamin deficiencies (vitamin D and B12) are provisionally compensated with appropriate preparations.

If the nutrition is successfully changed over and the co-operation of the patient is sufficient, such food auxiliary means can be done without. If fats are ingested, they should be of high quality and of vegetable origin and not from animal products. Above all, alcohol, finished products, fast food and cigarettes should be avoided. The result is a better general condition and a healthier nervous and vascular system.