Glossary

acupuncture—a form of complementary or alternative medicine that consists of inserting small needles into the skin in order to relieve pain and other symptoms.

biofeedback—a form of complementary or alternative medicine that uses electronic monitoring devices to help teach a patient how to relax and control pain symptoms.

blood glucose management—taking care—through diet and/or medication—of the level of sugar found in the blood. Blood glucose management is especially important for patients with diabetes.

clinical trial—a medical study that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of a treatment or drug. Each trial is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to treat people with a specific illness.

diabetic nerve pain (DNP)—a symptom of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. Symptoms can include numbness; tingling or pain; and weakness in the toes, feet, legs, hands, arms, and fingers. These symptoms are often worse at night.

FDA (Food and Drug Administration)—a governmental organization responsible for protecting public health by ensuring, among other things, that medications are safe and effective.

meditation—a process of concentration and relaxation, sometimes used to help relieve pain symptoms.

narcotic—a medication that is often used to relieve pain symptoms and can lead to dependence.

norepinephrine—a chemical messenger that aids communication between many areas of the brain that affect emotional aspects of a person's nature. It is also important in "controlling the volume" of messages about physical discomfort or pain between the brain and body.

serotonin—a chemical messenger that aids communication between many areas of the brain that affect emotional aspects of a person's nature. It is also important in "controlling the volume" of messages about physical discomfort or pain between the brain and body.