Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Neuropathy means nerve damage. There are many kinds of neuropathy that can stem from a variety of different causes.

Peripheral neuropathy is a common condition that affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system, leading to symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the extremities. Diabetes, chemotherapy, and autoimmune disorders can all potentially cause Peripheral Neuropathy.

Research on Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for peripheral neuropathy.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials published in 2017 found that acupuncture significantly improves the symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy. The study found that acupuncture can reduce pain and improve sensory function in patients with peripheral neuropathy.

A study published in the Journal of Phytomedicine found that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for chemotherapy induced Peripheral Neuropathy. The study involved 60 participants with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, who were randomly assigned to either an acupuncture group or a waiting list control group. The researchers found that the acupuncture group had significant improvements in nerve conduction velocity, sensory nerve function, and overall quality of life compared to the control group.

In another study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture was found to relieve pain associated with diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. The study included 65 participants with peripheral neuropathy, who were randomly assigned to an acupuncture group or a control group. The researchers found that the acupuncture group had significant reductions in both subjective sensation of pain and objective nervous system examination compared to the control group.

How Acupuncture Works for Peripheral Neuropathy

Acupuncture can effectively treat diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy by improving peripheral nerve conduction velocity, increasing plasma nitric oxide content, and promoting local blood circulation. This helps to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and restore nerve function.

Acupuncture may also help to reduce insulin resistance and improve Type II Diabetes, which can be a major cause of Peripheral Neuropathy.

Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy

Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for most kinds of peripheral neuropathy. Its ability to provide lasting relief from numbness, tingling, and pain without the drawbacks of medication make it an attractive option for many people suffering with neuropathic pain. If conventional treatments have not provided any relief, adding an acupuncturist to your healthcare team may improve your quality of life.

Medical Disclaimer

 The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It should not be interpreted as medical advice or a substitute for individualized care from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your licensed practitioner before making any changes to your health regimen.

About the Author

Dr. Joshua Park, DSOM, L.Ac

Dr. Park is a licensed acupuncturist with a doctorate in East Asian Medicine, specializing in pain management and neurological conditions. He is the clinical director of Empowered You Acupuncture in Orange County, California, and is an adjunct professor at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. His clinical approach combines classical Chinese herbal formulas with current research on neuroplasticity to help neuropathy patients enjoy a better quality of life.