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Suggest Treatment For Chronic Neuropathy In The Leg
Question: I HAVE NEUROPATHY IN MY LOWER RIGHT LEG AND FOOT. I HAVE HAD MAJOR BACK SURGERY TWICE IN THE LAST 3 YEARS. FUSION OF TH2 2ND THROUGH THE 5TH VERTEBRAES. MY BIGGEST PROBLEM IS THE CONSTANT JUMPING AND PAIN IN MY LEG WHILE TRYING TO SLEEP. I AM ON GAPAPANTIN WHICH HELPS A LITTLE. ANY SUGGESTIONS?
Brief Answer:
Increase gabapentin dosage.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Of course I suppose you already know about the importance of physical therapy, not only for the current nerve damage, but also to prevent further injuries in the future.
In terms of medication, the first option would be to increase the Gabapentin dosage. 300 mg is pretty low, it can go much higher than that, to 1800 or even 2400 mg in some cases. I am not suggesting you necessarily go that high as there is the risk of side effects, but one can surely attempt to raise the dosage to 600 mg/day and if that is not working 900 mg/day.
Other medication which could be tried if that doesn't work would be duloxetine. It is an antidepressant but is also a first line therapy for neuropathic pain. It can be used alone, but also in addition to Gabapentin.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Increase gabapentin dosage.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Of course I suppose you already know about the importance of physical therapy, not only for the current nerve damage, but also to prevent further injuries in the future.
In terms of medication, the first option would be to increase the Gabapentin dosage. 300 mg is pretty low, it can go much higher than that, to 1800 or even 2400 mg in some cases. I am not suggesting you necessarily go that high as there is the risk of side effects, but one can surely attempt to raise the dosage to 600 mg/day and if that is not working 900 mg/day.
Other medication which could be tried if that doesn't work would be duloxetine. It is an antidepressant but is also a first line therapy for neuropathic pain. It can be used alone, but also in addition to Gabapentin.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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