Peripheral nerves can regrow slowly, at roughly a millimetre a day, when the cause of damage is removed. That is why improvement, when it happens, takes months. Long-standing or severe damage may not fully recover, but symptoms can still be eased.
What helps nerves recover
- Removing the cause: blood sugar control, B12 replacement, stopping alcohol, adjusting a medicine
- Exercise and good circulation
- Not smoking
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Research
Scientists are studying growth factors (as in PRP) and stem cells to support nerve repair. This is promising but early.