Sep 5, 2017 10:47AM LauraSD wrote:

Hi Ladies:

I developed a mild numbness in my feet about half way through my chemotherapy that progressed to foot pain and numbness after I finished my last round of chemo. I completed chemo in November, 2015 and I still have PN. It is not getting better. I have seen an integrative medicine specialist who tried L-glutamine, alpha lipoic acid, acetyl L carnitine, omega 3 fatty acids along with my normal multi-vitamins and Vitamin D. I did not see any improvement. I tried Lyrica with no success. Gabapentin seemed to help, but it caused severe headaches and brain fog. I saw a neurologist in Feb, 2017 who started me on amitriptyline at 25 mg per day. It worked. However, it caused severe sedation in me. I was instructed to take it at 7 pm so I would be able to get up for work the next day and I would basically fall asleep by 9 pm. It really decreased the quality time I was able to spend with my family in the evenings, so even though my pain was better, I decided to stop it. I weaned off it over several months and even the lower doses made me sedate. I have been completely off it for 2 weeks and the pain has definitely come back, but at least I can stay awake until later than 9.

I just wanted to let you know about this drug because it is not a proven medication for neuropathy, but it may help you. And maybe you won't get the sedation that I got.

Wishing you all more comfort in your daily lives!

Laura

Oct 7, 2017 10:03PM 2westies4me wrote:

I felt the same way. Thought I was pretty lucky until the neuropathy started getting worse....just don't understand. Am trying acupuncture, but no improvement yet.

Have you received any tips on relieving the discomfort?

Oct 11, 2017 09:04PM - edited Oct 11, 2017 09:10PM by gardengypsy

Bosom and everyone:

Three weeks ago we bought a house that had one floor living - including laundry - because stairs are dangerous and difficult for me.

I am taking 2100 mg Gabapentin daily and it keeps the pain at bay unless I stay on my feet too long. It makes me totally loopy; I could never keep a job right now.

I am having the muscle and nerve testing on Friday. I don't really know why I am putting myself through this.

Very good recent article here on Neuropathy after Breast Cancer : http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/885106

Even though they focus on all types of neuropathy, I find the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy newsletter helpful and validating. You have to become a member.

https://www.foundationforpn.org

I am using arnica cream on my legs and feet at night. Hot baths feel good. I am trying to find someone to do foot reflexology/massage.

Thinking of you, Bosum, and sending best wishes to everyone else who is suffering from this!

This is not Pink.

xoxoxo

Oct 15, 2017 08:28PM gardengypsy wrote:

jbakerwebb,

What brand and dosage for the alpha lipoic?

Oct 22, 2017 10:23AM jbakerwebb wrote:

found it! lopoic acid (1,000-1,200mg per day) along with B6, B12. B- complex and folic acid, as studies show they (especially the alpha lopoic acid) can help regenerate the nerve coverings destroyed by the chemo that protect the nerves.