Using Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) to Treat Neuropathy: Quincy IL Integrative & Functional Medicine:

by Yoon Hang Kim MD

Neuropathy is a common yet often misunderstood condition affecting millions. Whether triggered by diabetes, autoimmune conditions, infections, or unknown causes, neuropathy can be painful and debilitating. While conventional treatments provide partial relief for some, emerging therapies like Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) are gaining interest for their ability to reduce pain and inflammation in a more integrative way.

Section 1: What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to damage or dysfunction of one or more nerves, typically in the peripheral nervous system (outside the brain and spinal cord). The most common form is peripheral neuropathy, which often presents as:

• Burning or stabbing pain

• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet

• Muscle weakness or imbalance

• Sensitivity to touch or temperature

Neuropathy can result from a variety of underlying causes, including:

• Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)

• Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

• Chemotherapy (chemo-induced neuropathy)

• Infections (e.g., shingles or HIV)

• Nutritional deficiencies (especially B vitamins)

  
  

Section 2: Conventional Treatment Approaches

Conventional medicine primarily focuses on symptom control and managing the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:

• Pharmaceuticals:

  • Gabapentin or Pregabalin for nerve pain

  • Tricyclic antidepressants (like amitriptyline)

  • Topical creams (capsaicin, lidocaine)

  • Opioids (reserved for severe cases due to addiction risk)

• Physical therapy to improve strength and balance

• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for pain relief

• Blood sugar control in diabetic patients

While these interventions can be helpful, they often come with side effects and may not fully resolve symptoms.

Section 3: Integrative Supplements for Neuropathy Relief

A functional medicine approach looks at root causes and supports nerve regeneration. Common evidence-supported supplements include:

• Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): Potent antioxidant that improves insulin sensitivity and may relieve nerve pain

• Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Supports mitochondrial function and nerve regeneration

• B-complex Vitamins: Especially B1 (benfotiamine), B6, and B12 (methylcobalamin) for nerve repair

• Curcumin: Anti-inflammatory compound found in turmeric

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Help reduce inflammation and support myelin sheath repair

These supplements can be a valuable part of a holistic neuropathy plan, especially when paired with dietary and lifestyle changes.

Section 4: LDN – A Promising Therapy for Neuropathy

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is gaining traction in the integrative medicine community for its unique role in managing chronic pain, neuroinflammation, and immune modulation.

How It Works

At low doses (typically 0.1 mg –4.5 mg), naltrexone briefly blocks opioid receptors, which paradoxically leads to a rebound increase in the body’s natural painkillers—endorphins and enkephalins. LDN also reduces microglial activation, dampening the inflammatory response in the nervous system.

Why LDN for Neuropathy?

• Reduces nerve pain: Especially helpful in fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, and autoimmune-related nerve pain

• Modulates immune response: Useful if the neuropathy has an autoimmune component

• Improves sleep and mood: Poor sleep and depression can worsen pain perception

• Low side effect profile: Unlike gabapentinoids or opioids, LDN is well-tolerated by most

What the Research Says

While large-scale trials are limited, small studies and case reports have shown promise:

• Patients with diabetic neuropathy report reduced pain and tingling

• Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy may improve when LDN is introduced

• Anecdotal reports suggest benefits in small fiber neuropathy, especially when conventional meds fail

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Final Thoughts

Neuropathy often requires a multi-layered treatment approach. For patients looking beyond conventional medications—or for those who haven’t found relief—Low Dose Naltrexone offers a novel, low-risk option worth exploring. It works best as part of an integrative plan that also includes nutrition, movement, and targeted supplementation.

If you're curious whether LDN might be right for your neuropathy symptoms, consult with a physician trained in functional or integrative medicine who can tailor the approach to your unique health profile.

Written by Yoon Hang Kim, MDOffering Integrative & Functional Medicine in Quincy, IL and via telehealth.👉 www.directintegrativecare.com

Dr. Yoon Hang Kim MD is a board-certified physician specializing in integrative and functional medicine with a focus on root-cause healing for chronic and complex conditions. Drawing from both conventional training and advanced studies in lifestyle, environmental, and systems-based medicine, Dr. Kim helps patients uncover and address the deeper imbalances driving illness. His practice, Direct Integrative Care, offers personalized, membership-based telemedicine services with a current focus on serving patients in and around Quincy, Illinois, including Hannibal, Missouri, Carthage, Illinois, and Macomb, Illinois. Dr. Kim empowers patients through an evidence-informed approach that blends modern science with holistic wisdom.