A growing number of people develop peripheral neuropathy.  This is a disease affecting nerves and causes them to not work properly.  Damage can be to a single nerve or a nerve group.  There are many possible causes with diabetes being the most common.  There is no “cure” and conventional medicine offers little help.  The good news is that whole body vibration can provide pain relief.

Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include pain and numbness.  Living with this disease can be quite difficult.  Normal daily activities can be quite challenging.  For example, people who experience numbness in the feet may not be able to feel the gas or brake pedal, making driving dangerous or impossible.  Simple activities like walking can also be difficult because the feet cannot be “felt”.  Exercise is too difficult or painful.

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Whole Body Vibration Exercise and Peripheral Neuropathy

Exercise is essential to help the body maintain its health.  Whole body vibration has much to offer the person suffering from peripheral neuropathy.  One of the benefits of whole body vibration exercise is increased circulation.  When circulation is improved, many people experience pain relief.  Over a period of time, people may begin to have the “feeling” return.

The International Journal of Diabetes Mellitus published a case study on the usage of whole body vibration for treatment of peripheral neuropathy.  A 64-year-old male had chronic diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in both his feet for about 2years. The patient tried multiple pain medications and various interventional pain treatments without significant pain relief. After 4weeks of whole body vibration treatment the patient’s pain level and gait patterns significantly improved. These findings illustrate the importance of considering whole body vibration as a complimentary treatment in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.

How to Use a Vibration Machine with Peripheral Neuropathy

Especially for people who have not been active in a while, simply standing on the machine can be enough to improve circulation.  A person may also sit in a chair and place the feet directly on the vibration plate.  As in any exercise program, one should consult his/her health practitioner to make sure it is safe for a specific situation.

Whole body vibration offers hope and the possibility of reduced pain for those who live with peripheral neuropathy.