5 Effective Strategies for Relief

Are you struggling with nerve-related issues? You’re not alone! 

Sensitive nerves can affect people of any age, but understanding your nerves and how to address them successfully is especially important for those of us with a few more years on the clock. So if you are dealing with frequent shooting sensations, tingling, or numbness in your body parts, it may be time to get proactive about finding relief — and lucky for you, we know exactly where to start. 

Below we dive into five strategies that may help you better understand and manage sensitive nerve concerns.

Nerve sensitivity manifests differently for each individual. They may include tingling, a sensation akin to pins and needles, a burning or shooting feeling, numbness, or a general feeling of discomfort. These signs can occur in any part of the body but mainly in the hands and feet, often indicating nerve irritation.

Potential Causes of Sensitive Nerve Symptoms

Posture and Repetitive Movements

Maintaining poor posture or engaging in repetitive movements for prolonged periods can lead to nerve compression and subsequent issues. Tasks like sitting at a desk for extended periods or performing repetitive manual labor can exacerbate nerve sensitivity.

Physical Trauma

Accidents or injuries that impact nerves can cause nerve issues. Trauma, such as fractures, sprains, or dislocations, may result in nerve irritation and generate sensations of tingling, burning, or discomfort.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Inadequate intake of essential vitamins, particularly B vitamins, can affect nerve health and lead to nerve-related issues. Vitamins like B12, B6, and folate are crucial for maintaining nerve function, and deficiencies can contribute to nerve sensitivity.

Aging

As we age, our nerves undergo various changes that can impact our health and function. Normal aging can lead to a gradual decline in nerve conduction velocity, meaning signals may travel more slowly along the nerves. Additionally, the number of nerve fibers may decrease, reducing sensory perception and coordination. Age-related changes can also increase the risk of nerve compression.

Stress and Anxiety

Psychological factors like stress and anxiety due to life’s challenges can exacerbate nerve issues. Heightened stress levels can lead to increased muscle tension, which can compress nerves and generate discomfort or tingling sensations.

Why Hands and Feet?

Nerve symptoms, such as tingling, burning, numbness, and discomfort, occur predominantly in the hands and feet. Numerous factors related to nerve anatomy and vulnerability may explain this phenomenon.

Nerve Length and Distribution

The nerves that supply the hands and feet, known as peripheral nerves, are some of the longest nerves in the body. Their extensive length makes them more susceptible to compression, entrapment, or injury along their course. Any compromise to these nerves can result in the manifestation of excessive sensitivity in the hands and feet.

Nerve Endings and Sensitivity

The hands and feet contain a higher concentration of nerve endings, making them more sensitive to external stimuli. These nerve endings are responsible for transmitting sensory information from your surroundings to the brain. When these nerves become irritated or damaged, it can lead to abnormal sensations like tingling, burning, or discomfort.

Mechanical Factors

The hands and feet are involved in intricate and repetitive daily movements. Continuous pressure, friction, or repetitive motion can compress or irritate the nerves, leading to excessive sensitivity. Activities like typing, texting, walking, or wearing ill-fitting shoes can contribute to nerve irritation in these regions.

Vulnerable Nerve Pathways

Certain areas of the hands and feet have specific nerve pathways particularly vulnerable to acute compression or injury. An example is the median nerve, which passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway surrounded by bones. A compressed median nerve in this region can cause carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Similarly, the tarsal tunnel in the feet is a space where several nerves pass, and compression in this area can lead to symptoms akin to carpal tunnel syndrome but in the feet.

Mitigating Sensitive Nerve Symptoms

It’s an unfortunate reality that as we age, our bodies can become more sensitive to the world around us. Fortunately, there are natural ways you can proactively lessen this discomfort and get relief from this nerve-related discomfort – and even perhaps manage them long-term. 

Mind-Body Techniques

Adopt stress-reducing practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness. These techniques promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate nerve sensitivity.

Ergonomic Modifications

Evaluate your work and living environments to ensure proper ergonomics. Adjust your workspace, chair, and computer setup to maintain a neutral posture and minimize nerve compression. It is also possible to reduce strain on your body using ergonomic tools and equipment.

Regular Movement and Stretching

Engage in regular physical activity and incorporate stretching exercises into your routine. Physical movement enhances blood circulation, reduces muscle tension, and promotes nerve health. Focus on gentle stretches that target areas prone to nerve sensitivity.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Apply heat or cold therapy to alleviate nerve discomfort. Experiment with warm compresses, heating pads, or warm baths to relax muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area. Alternatively, cold packs or ice wrapped in a towel can help reduce discomfort and numb nerve sensations.

Nutrition and Supplementation

Maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, particularly B vitamins, and incorporate foods like leafy greens, legumes, eggs, and fortified cereals. 

Another strategy is taking specific nutrients that promise to mitigate nerve discomfort. Among these, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl L-Carnitine, Benfotiamine, and Vitamin B12 have shown promising results in supporting nerve health and reducing discomfort.

Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA)

ALA is a powerful antioxidant that has been extensively studied for its neuroprotective properties and ability to reduce oxidative stress and improve nerve function. Studies have shown that ALA can enhance nerve health and alleviate discomfort associated with other conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. ^(1-4)

Acetyl L-Carnitine (ALC)

ALC is an amino acid derivative involved in cell energy production. It has been studied for its potential to improve nerve function and provide comfort. ALC may enhance nerve health, protect nerves from damage, and reduce discomfort intensity. ⁽⁵⁾

Benfotiamine

Benfotiamine is a fat-soluble thiamine (Vitamin B1) form with enhanced bioavailability. It plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and has demonstrated antioxidant effects. Studies suggest that benfotiamine may help alleviate manifestations such as discomfort, numbness, and tingling by defending nerves from harmful metabolic byproducts. ^(6-7)

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve health and function, and deficiency can lead to nerve damage and related issues. Supplementation with B12 (in the form of highly bioavailable Methylcobalamin) may help with nerve integrity, reduce discomfort, and support nerve function. ⁽⁷⁾

While these nutrients have shown potential in mitigating nerve discomfort, consulting with your healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen is essential. Your doctor can guide appropriate dosages and potential interactions with medications.  Additionally, these nutrients should be viewed as complementary to your existing treatment plan recommended by a healthcare provider.

Introducing Dynamic Nerve™

Introducing Dynamic Nerve™, Stonehenge Health^®‘s groundbreaking nerve health formula, meticulously developed from years of research. This exceptional formula combines the power of science and nature to provide a comprehensive solution for your nerve health concerns.* 

Dynamic Nerve™ features a potent antioxidant blend with 600 mg of Alpha Lipoic Acid and Acetyl l-Carnitine to enhance cellular energy and alleviate discomfort. Additionally, its high-dose Vitamin B complex, including Benfentomine and Methylcobalamin, supports the maintenance of healthy nerve cells and myelin sheath, promoting optimal nerve functionality.*

Say goodbye to uncomfortable sensations such as tingling, numbness, and burning. Let Dynamic Nerve™ be the key to unlocking a renewed sense of comfort and well-being for your nerves.*

Sources:
1. Mijnhout GS, et al. Int J Endocrinol. 2012;456279.
2. Han T, et al. European Journal of Endocrinology. 2012;167(4):465-471.
3. Karaganis S, Song XJ. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2021;46(5):1199-1212. d5
4. Haupt E, Ledermann H, Köpcke W. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Feb;43(2):71-7. doi: 10.5414/cpp43071. Erratum in: Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Jun;43(6):304. PMID: 15726875.
5. Traina G. The neurobiology of acetyl-L-carnitine. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). 2016 Jun 1;21(7):1314-29.
6. Stirban A, et al. Diabetes Technol Ther. 2013;15(9):733-737. Karaganis S, Song XJ. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2021;46(5):1199-1212. doi:10.1111/jcpt.13375