I started using the Pills and Supplements every day as part of a longer-term approach to my neuropathy. They’re designed to help with nerve growth and circulation. It’s a slow process—no instant results—but they give me hope. I consider this a maintenance tier because I have to do it day-to-day, and I don’t really see any results yet. I’m not sure if they really work,

Pills & Supplements

These two supplements are targeted at nerve regrowth and improved circulation (often containing Alpha Lipoic Acid and B-vitamins).

The negative aspect is that these are a long-term play with no immediate "feedback loop." You’re essentially in a cycle of daily doses hoping for internal repair.

The Cost: Can be a significant cost over time depending on the brand you buy.  Typically run between $20.00 – $60.00 for a 30-day supply

So, I’ve used both the capsaicin cream and the compounded prescription cream, and honestly, they work really well both together and on their own. The capsaicin cream is honestly the star of the show—it’s a fantastic tool and it’s pretty affordable. The prescription cream is also awesome —sometimes, however,  the capsaicin cream actually works better for me. These are great  to get because they’re cheap, and you can have them scattered around—in your car, office, or wherever you need them. ...definately keep both on hand 

Capsacian Cream

It is Derived from chili peppers, it provides heat to help manage middle-grade pain and improve sensory feedback. For functional relief. It’s reliable enough to keep in the car for emergency use (like when you need to ensure you can feel the pedals).

The Cost: $3 to $6

The Heavy-Duty Specialist: Compounded Prescription Cream

A custom-ordered mix (Gabapentin, Ketamine, Lidocaine) designed for targeted nerve numbing and pain signaling interruption. It is high-tech and powerful, yet surprisingly, it sometimes feels less effective than the simpler capsaicin option. It’s a specialized tool for when OTC options aren't cutting it.

The cost: no insurance - $80 to $120

I’ve been using an electric foot massager for several years now. I started with a simple one that cost about $50, and after it gave me some real relief, I invested in a high-end model for a couple hundred dollars. It’s been fantastic—the rolling massage, the vibrations, and the heat all work together so well. Next to the compression boots and ice boots, it’s absolutely at the top of my list for pain relief.  They provide a targeted, kneading motion along the soles, which helps improve circulation. They stimulate nerve endings, which can reduce numbness and promote a mild analgesic effect. The heat function enhances blood flow and relaxes muscles, which eases tightness and reduces discomfort. They are super passive, just slide your feet in and enjoy the relief!

Cost: $50 to $350

Ice Boots 

So, I’ve used both the capsaicin cream and the compounded prescription cream, and honestly, they work really well both together and on their own. The capsaicin cream is honestly the star of the show—it’s a fantastic tool and it’s pretty affordable. The prescription cream is also awesome —sometimes, however,  the capsaicin cream actually works better for me. These are great  to get because they’re cheap, and you can have them scattered around—in your car, office, or wherever you need them. ...definitely keep both on hand 

Cost $20-$30

I  use these compression boots multiple times a day—sometimes just sitting in my favorite chair, letting them work. A friend with neuropathy recommended them, and honestly, I’m so glad I gave them a shot. They’re a total game-changer—on high-pain days, they give me a deep, rhythmic massage that really eases the swelling and dulls that intense pain. 

Often categorized as "athletic recovery" gear, these full-leg sleeves are  a powerhouse tool for neuropathy. They use a process called intermittent pneumatic compression to mimic the body’s natural muscle pump. The way they work is to reduce intense, deep-tissue pain by flushing out metabolic waste and stimulating significant blood flow through the entire leg and foot.

These are a "must-have" for high-pain days. The rhythmic squeezing provides a unique massage that not only dulls pain but can actually help reduce the swelling (edema) that often makes neuropathy symptoms worse. They offer a level of relief that standard socks or manual massagers simply can’t reach. They are particularly effective because they provide a "passive" treatment—you can sit in your favorite chair, zip them up, and let the machine do the work.

Cost: $75 to $300

DRG Stimulator - The Terminator

I was amazed that after  years, my neurologist had never mentioned this option. So, I went to a pain relief doctor, and right away, they brought up the DRG surgery. After just eight weeks, the trial and implant were done, and my pain dropped dramatically—from a 9 down to a 2. It’s been absolutely incredible. 

The DRG stimulation targets specific spinal nerves by placing leads near the dorsal root ganglion to modulate pain signals and prevent pain in lower extremities. It involves a trial phase first, takes a week and you wear the device  taped to your back. Assuming you get good pain felief ( 50% relief or more). This is followed by a permanent implant .  The surgery is  outpatient and it takes about 2 hours, when you walk out of the building you end up with mostly surgical site pain. Expect to be very limited and restricted by your doctor,  can't bend, reach,  or pick up anything heavier than a gallon of milk! Amazingly the success rate is about 81% of patients who have experienced at least 50% pain relief at three months;

Cost: in the U.S.: $45,000 to $78,000.

It seems like allot of money but after 8 weeks post op I had not used anything for pain relief except for a little capcacian cream. I would estimate my pain hovers around 2-3 most of the time!!! This is from my previouse normal of 8-9. It is life changing. 

Insurance may cover this surgery (It did for me) it was less than $10K after deductibles and copays. Also there are overseas options. I looked at Germany and it was approx. $14K and India where it costs $9 to $10K. Prior to my surgery the insurance carrier (Cigna) had not approved it, I kept moving forward and decided if it wasn't covered I would just deal with the collections people at the Hospital. I was desperate and when I saw the over 80% success rate I knew I would do whatever I needed to get it done.

TODAY - I have about 75% of my pain gone