Living with peripheral neuropathy can greatly impact your quality of life. The numbness, tingling, and pain felt in your hands and feet can make even the simplest of daily tasks challenging. While there are many different treatment options for peripheral neuropathy, many people are discovering the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture for managing symptoms.
Acupuncture is an ancient practice that when combined with modern understanding, offers a natural approach to relief with nerve complications like peripheral neuropathy.
What is peripheral neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord become damaged, most commonly affecting the hands and feet. This deliberating condition is usually caused by diabetes, injuries, infections, chemotherapy, and certain medications.
Common symptoms range from mild to severe and include the following:
- Muscle weakness
- Burning or shooting pain
Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet - Balance issues
- Trouble sleeping due to pain and discomfort
- Increased sensitivity to touch
These symptoms can progress and become more uncomfortable over time if left untreated, making early intervention and proper management key for maintaining the quality of life.
Acupuncture works through various mechanisms to address peripheral neuropathy symptoms. During your acupuncture session, hair-thin needles are carefully inserted at specific points on your body to stimulate your nervous system and promote your body’s natural healing processes.
Acupuncture improves circulation
The strategic placement of acupuncture needles increases blood flow to damaged nerve areas, delivering oxygen and nutrients to support your healing journey. This enhanced circulation also helps remove inflammatory compounds that could be contributing to nerve irritation.
Acupuncture reduces pain & stimulates nerve signals
Acupuncture triggers the release of your body’s natural pain-fighting compounds, including enkephalines and endorphins. These are natural painkillers that help reduce the discomfort you may be experiencing with peripheral neuropathy. Acupuncture also helps to regulate nerve signaling patterns to help you overcome muscle weakness and balance issues.
Acupuncture reduces inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a common issue associated with peripheral neuropathy, which over time can worsen nerve damage. Studies show that acupuncture has anti-inflammatory effects, helping to create an environment more conducive to nerve healing and regeneration.
Acupuncture supports nerve regeneration
Research has suggested that acupuncture may support the body’s ability to repair damaged nerve tissues by stimulating the production of nerve growth factors and promoting cellular repair mechanisms between peripheral and central nerves.
A comprehensive treatment approach to peripheral neuropathy
At Lycoming Orthopedics & Sports Acupuncture, our team understands that managing peripheral neuropathy often requires a multi-faceted approach. While acupuncture is a fantastic cornerstone treatment, depending on your symptoms, we may also recommend the following treatments:
- Nutritional guidance to ensure you’re getting the correct support for nerve function
- Specific corrective exercises to improve circulation and muscle strength
- Complementary therapies that work alongside acupuncture
A comprehensive approach helps address both symptoms and underlying factors that may be contributing to your neuropathy.
What to expect during your first visit
Your first appointment at our clinic will begin with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and overall health. We understand that every patient is unique, which is why our team will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
During your acupuncture session, you will rest comfortably while our trained practitioners insert thin needles, explaining every step of the way. Your session will typically last 30 to 45 minutes. Many patients find the treatments deeply relaxing, and you may experience immediate relief, although lasting results are usually built over multiple acupuncture sessions.
The number of acupuncture sessions you need will vary on your condition’s severity and how long you have been suffering with your symptoms. Some of our patients benefit from weekly sessions, while others may need more or less frequent acupuncture sessions.
What influences acupuncture for peripheral neuropathy?
As mentioned many patients experience significant improvements with acupuncture, however, it is important to maintain realistic expectations. Many factors can influence treatment outcomes, these include:
- The severity of your nerve damage
- Your overall health
- The underlying causes of your peripheral neuropathy
- How long you have been suffering with symptoms
- Consistency with treatment plans
To gain optimal results, we will work closely with you to establish clear goals and regularly assess your progress, adjusting your treatment plan as needed.
Long-term management for peripheral neuropathy
Successfully managing peripheral neuropathy often requires a long-term approach. Beyond your acupuncture sessions, we will help you develop strategies for maintaining the benefits of treatment, identifying and avoiding trigger factors, preventing symptom progression, and implementing healthy lifestyle practices that support nerve health.
The importance of early intervention
If you are experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, seeking treatment early can make a significant difference in your healing journey. Early intervention leads to better response to treatment, reduced risk of complications, slower progression of symptoms, and improved quality of life.
Don’t wait until your symptoms become unbearable before seeking help. The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of achieving optimal results.
Book your first appointment today
Living with peripheral neuropathy doesn’t mean you have to live with constant discomfort or limited function. At Lycoming Orthopedic & Sports Acupuncture, we are committed to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life.
Take the first step and contact our office today to schedule your initial consultation. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help you achieve your health goals. Whether you’re dealing with mild symptoms or more severe peripheral neuropathy, we are here to support your journey toward better health and improved function.
