Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treats "nerves" (like anxiety, neuropathy, or nerve pain) primarily with acupuncture, inserting fine needles to balance energy (Qi) and stimulate healing, alongside herbal formulas (like Suan Zao Ren or Xiao Yao San) for calming, and techniques like acupressure, cupping, and moxibustion to improve circulation and nerve function. These methods aim to resolve underlying imbalances causing symptoms, often targeting poor blood flow, emotional stagnation, or systemic weakness.
During recovery, exercise is incredibly important not just to help your muscles regain function, but also to increase blood flow throughout your body. This, in turn, speeds nerve healing. Likewise, inactivity slows progress. You don't want to overdo it, but the more you move your muscles, the better.
Acupuncture not only reverses the poor remodeling of the nervous system but also stimulates the release of neurotrophic substances such as nerve growth factors in the nervous system to ameliorate pain and promote the regeneration and repair of nerve fibers.
Foods That May Heal Nerve Damage
Vitamin B for Neuropathic Pain
B vitamins have been hypothesized to alleviate neuropathic pain in diabetic patients, and this hypothesis has been tested in both animal and human models.
Creating a Daily Beverage Routine for Managing Nerve Pain
Turmeric Bioactive Compounds Alleviate Spinal Nerve Ligation-Induced Neuropathic Pain by Suppressing Glial Activation and Improving Mitochondrial Function in Spinal Cord and Amygdala.
One of the strongest herbs for nerve pain is St. John's Wort, known for its nerve-soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been traditionally used to help with nerve injuries and neuropathy.
Berries, peaches, cherries, red grapes, oranges and watermelon, among others, are loaded with antioxidants, which help to decrease inflammation and reduce nerve damage. Plus, grapes, blueberries and cranberries have been found to be full of a powerful anti-inflammatory compound called resveratrol.
Sugary Snacks: Snacks or desserts such as ice cream, cookies, candy, and even excess fruit consumption should be avoided by neuropathy patients. High levels of blood sugar impact nerve damage, especially in those with diabetic neuropathy.
People with bleeding disorders, pacemakers, metal allergies, or active infections, as well as pregnant women and those on blood thinners, generally should not get acupuncture without strict medical guidance, as it can interfere with implants or increase bleeding risks; a thorough health assessment with a qualified practitioner is crucial. Conditions like unstable spines, severe immune issues, or certain cancers also warrant caution.
In general, Medicare doesn't cover acupuncture treatment (including dry needling). Some Medicare Advantage plans may provide acupuncture coverage. You'll need to check with the plan provider to find out what is or isn't covered. Medicare will cover acupuncture if it's specifically for treating chronic low back pain.
The first signs of nerve damage often involve sensory changes like numbness, tingling, or "pins and needles," typically in your hands and feet, along with sharp pain (burning, electric shock-like) and increased sensitivity to touch, often accompanied by muscle weakness or coordination issues, like dropping things. These symptoms usually appear gradually, feeling like a glove or sock is on, and can worsen at night, signaling a need for early medical evaluation to prevent further issues.
Frontiers | Vitamin B12 Enhances Nerve Repair and Improves Functional Recovery After Traumatic Brain Injury by Inhibiting ER Stress-Induced Neuron Injury.
Researchers demonstrate that transferring healthy mitochondria from support glial cells to nerve cells could reduce nerve pain and degeneration. Fluorescence microscopy images show satellite glial cells transferring mitochondria (red) to neurons through nanotubes that connect the two cells.
Anxiety and depression can make neuropathic pain worse. Antidepressants have proven successful in providing neuropathic pain relief. Experts believe these medications treat pain as well as anxiety and depression symptoms.
Nuts: Crunchy Nerve Supporters
Walnuts: Packed with omega-3s for nerve cell health and anti-inflammatory properties. Cashews: Magnesium, B vitamins, and healthy fats for optimal nerve function are contained. Pecans: Antioxidants that protect nerve cells from oxidative stress are rich.
Green tea polyphenols (GTPs) exert neuroprotective effects on regeneration of the central nervous system (CNS).
4 Exercises to Reduce Chronic Nerve Pain
Yan Hu Suo is a standout herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its natural analgesic effects on nerve, muscle, and menstrual pain.
Teas for anxiety include mint teas, chamomile teas, lavender teas, rose teas, and matcha.
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Vicks VapoRub has other popular off-label uses. Some of these have actual benefits based on research. For instance, Vicks VapoRubis may be useful in relieving muscle aches, neuropathic (nerve-related) pain, treating toenail fungus, and softening callouses.
Generally, turmeric offers steady, long-term support, while ginger is often chosen for faster, more immediate effects. The reason turmeric root works gradually while ginger root acts quickly comes down to their unique compounds and how your body responds.
Don't take turmeric supplements if: You're taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil , Motrin ), or Acetaminophen (Tylenol ). Turmeric may lessen the effects of these medications. You're taking indomethacin (Indocin ).