Fractures take about six weeks to heal fully, depending on the nature and location of the break. Limb fractures can be very effectively managed by a good orthopaedic surgeon, but damage to the nerves can occur, resulting in loss of sensation and movement in some cases. Fortunately, damaged nerves are able to regrow, although this can take up to 18 months. In the meantime, here are some natural ways to help damaged nerves to recover.
Natural ways to help nerve damage recovery
Diet and supplements
Your nerve endings are sheathed in a substance called myelin, which is necessary for the normal transmission of electrical signals along the neural pathways. In damaged nerves, myelin can become depleted, causing disruption to the sensation in the affected area. DHA is a naturally occurring, fatty acid derived from the oil found in fish and oils, such as flax, olive, and walnut, and it is essential for the production of myelin.
By including plenty of foodstuffs containing omega 3 fatty acids in your diet, you can give nerve repair a real boost.
There are some supplements that can also help to speed up nerve repair. Try including the following supplements in your daily diet:
- magnesium
- ginseng
- garlic
- vervain
You can obtain all these supplements from good health food shops, as well as online.
As well as including plenty of omega 3-filled fish in your diet, you should also eat vitamins in the B-complex group. Vitamin B12, in particular, contains chromium, which can help with pain reduction and improvement of nerve growth. In addition to taking B12 as a supplement, you can find it in foodstuffs, such as eggs, dairy products, and fortified cereals.
Exercising
In order to boost your circulation and pump vital nutrition and oxygen to the damaged nerves, you should exercise regularly. Your orthopaedic surgeon will work in conjunction with hospital physiotherapists to devise a suitable exercise programme that will help to restore the movement in your affected limb. If your fracture allows, gentle walking or swimming provides good all-around exercise without placing undue strain on your system.
Massage
Massage can help to promote blood circulation through the affected area, preventing stiffness and stimulating nerve activity and growth.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be used to stimulate the nerves in the affected area. An experienced acupuncture practitioner can use the acupuncture needles to improve your circulation and also relieve pain.
In conclusion
If you have suffered a fracture that resulted in nerve damage, follow the tips given above to speed up your recovery. For more advice and information on fracture and nerve recovery, have a chat with your orthopaedic surgeon.
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