PN Is a Trial-and-Error Disease

Neuropathy is a trial-and-error disease. First, neuropathy is a bundle of conditions that are confusing and somewhat interdependent (any physicians has to admit this). Second, treatments (medicines, diet, and lifestyle changes) that work for some don’t seem to work for all. Third, the stovepipe nature of our healthcare industry acts to stifle a clear action plan (start talking supplements and your neurologist will quickly tell you she cannot advise you).

This trial-and-error is frustrating and expensive. Should I try chropractic? Surgery? Can nerves be regenerated as the TV ad promises? What about those infrared machines? Why are there so few definitive books on the topic?

That’s why I’m such a fan of support groups. It’s an ongoing attempt to share information with others in the same boat. Few in support groups are medically trained. And there is potential for members to over estimate their knowledge. But over time, the peer-to-peer sharing provides benefits.

I think as long as we are careful to avoid one-size-fits-all advice, support groups are the best ongoing avenue that we have for keeping up with the science and vetting the overpromises of the snake oil vendors.