Hi Mary,

I am so sorry to hear about your struggles. It is perfectly normal and understandable to feel outraged, overwhelmed and robbed. What you are dealing with is undeniably difficult. My sister has diabetic PN which struck early, it is unfortunate you had to join those ranks. I don't have PN but after three foot operations, a nerve injury and CRPS I understand the beast that is nerve pain and the loss of daily function.

I found going to a therapist who specialized in chronic illness, pain and trauma to be immensely helpful. I too went through a very dark time and could not see my way out of it. The therapist helped me grieve my losses and move forward with skills to deal with pain and stress. She also utilized hypnosis and EMDR which made a huge difference for me and sort of went in sideways around the conscious speaking part of the brain. Depression and anxiety often accompany life changing illness. It is just as important to attend to your mental health as the physical and it will help you manage your condition and feel better. I found my counselor on the Psychology Today website. They have a list of therapists by city and I just looked for someone with the right clinical interests.

I second the Vit D recommendation. It is often low (even with sun) and so important for nerve health and chronic pain. You might also check out low dose naltrexone. It has shown some utility for diabetic neuropathy. http://ldnresearchtrust.org

Take care and be kind to yourself and your body. I am sending Healing Love and prayers, Littlepaw