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Peripheral Neuropathy

by Jennifer Midlane R.Ac


Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy: Top Causes and Comprehensive Care with Neuro-Acupuncture

 

Peripheral neuropathy, a challenging condition that can disrupt daily life with uncomfortable sensations and dysfunction, can be effectively managed with neuro-acupuncture. By understanding its causes and exploring the healing effect of neuro-acupuncture, those dealing with peripheral neuropathy can begin to find relief. Let's delve into the top three causes of this condition and how acupuncture can alleviate symptoms and promote nerve health, providing a path to a more comfortable life.

1. Diabetes: Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can damage nerves, particularly in the feet and hands. This can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, squeezing, and burning. Neuro-acupuncture helps by improving blood flow to damaged nerves, reducing inflammation, and stimulating nerve repair.

2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy, an important cancer treatment, can cause peripheral neuropathy as a side effect. The powerful medication used in chemotherapy may damage nerves, resulting in numbness and painful sensations. Neuro-acupuncture, a gentle and non-invasive option, offers a comforting option for managing chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and improving quality of life during or following cancer treatment.

3. Physical Trauma: Physical trauma, such as injuries from accidents or surgeries, can directly damage peripheral nerves, leading to neuropathic symptoms. Neuro-acupuncture offers healing by stimulating the specific nerves affected to promote repair, alleviate symptoms, and reduce stress associated with traumatic injuries. It supports the body's natural healing processes and helps individuals regain function and well-being.

How Does Neuro-Acupuncture Help?

Neuro-acupuncture directly stimulates nerve activity, promoting your body’s own natural healing and regulating functions. The treatments trigger the release of neurotransmitters that promote nerve repair, reduce pain signals, and provoke deep relaxation. Additionally, neuro-acupuncture improves blood circulation to damaged nerves, supplying essential nutrients and oxygen for repair and regeneration. Neuro-acupuncture is a comprehensive treatment for peripheral neuropathy by targeting both symptoms and underlying imbalances.

Jennifer Midlane is an acupuncturist in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing effective pain relief and care for those with neurological conditions while bridging the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.


 

Resources:

1)     Dietzel, Joanna et al. “Acupuncture in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy-Related Complaints: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.” Journal of clinical medicine vol. 12,6 2103. 7 Mar. 2023, doi:10.3390/jcm12062103

2)     Dimitrova A, Murchison C, Oken B. Acupuncture for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Altern Complement Med. 2017 Mar;23(3):164-179. doi: 10.1089/acm.2016.0155. Epub 2017 Jan 23. PMID: 28112552; PMCID: PMC5359694

3)     Friedemann T, Kark E, Cao N, et al. Acupuncture improves chemotherapy-induced neuropathy explored by neurophysiological and clinical outcomes – the randomized, controlled, cross-over ACUCIN trial. Phytomedicine. Published online June 26, 2022. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154294

4)     Yang Y, Rao C, Yin T, Wang S, Shi H, Yan X, Zhang L, Meng X, Gu W, Du Y, Hong F. Application and underlying mechanism of acupuncture for the nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury: remodeling of nerve system. Front Cell Neurosci. 2023 Oct 24;17:1253438. doi: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1253438. PMID: 37941605; PMCID: PMC10627933