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Peripheral Neuropathy is a fairly common condition caused by damage to the nerves in the body. This can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling, usually in the hands and feet. The condition is caused by a number of reasons ranging from diabetes, chemotherapy, autoimmune diseases, and even pressure on the spinal cord. While there is no known cure for Peripheral Neuropathy, some treatments, such as acupuncture, may help to greatly improve symptoms.  (1, 2) 

Living with Peripheral Neuropathy can prove to be a struggle, even daily. Walking, a motion most of us take for granted, can feel like stepping on glass at times. Acupuncture treatment is a highly recommended option that has been shown to be effective for reducing symptoms.  

How does acupuncture work to improve symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy?   

Acupuncture is well known for its ability to affect neuro-endocrine response and restore blood flow in the body. Combined with its effectiveness in nerve stimulation and regeneration, this makes it an ideal treatment option for anyone with Peripheral Neuropathy. Increase in blood flow to extremities can help to rejuvenate nerves that have lost sensation and/or help in easing chronic pain.  

The theory behind acupuncture is in maintaining the balance of energy in the body by changing the signaling between the cells. It is like an air traffic controller regulating the smooth takeoff and landing of airplanes.  When this energy is re-balanced, it can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Acupuncture also stimulates the production of endorphins, which are hormones that help to reduce pain.  

Why is acupuncture such a successful treatment for Peripheral Neuropathy?   

There are several reasons why acupuncture is so highly recommended for those suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy. Firstly, acupuncture can be used to pinpoint areas of the body that need stimulation in particular. Capillaries on one’s fingertips for instance, can be targeted to increase blood flow. In turn, this can increase sensation in the area and/or decrease pain. Secondly, acupuncture is a safe and non-invasive treatment option without any of the negative side effects that medications tend to have. Thirdly, its holistic approach and lack of chemicals makes it ideal when thinking about long-term treatment.  

How long does it take to feel improvements from acupuncture?   

Peripheral Neuropathy is a chronic, progressive disease, and as such requires an intensive treatment plan over several weeks. Many patients noted that they have significant improvement after 6-8 weeks of treatment. Individual results will vary based on severity of the condition that will be established during the initial consultation with a doctor of acupuncture. 

If you are suffering from the symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been searching for. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to reach out to us today to find out more about your options! 

  1. Dimitrova, A., Murchison, C., & Oken, B. (2017). Acupuncture for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 23(3), 164–179. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2016.0155 
  2. Chien, T. J., Liu, C. Y., Fang, C. J., & Kuo, C. Y. (2019). The Efficacy of Acupuncture in Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Integrative cancer therapies, 18, 1534735419886662. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735419886662 

Reclaim Your Health & Wellness

Acupuncture treatments provide many benefits beyond just pain relief for those suffering with chronic neck or back pain.