Bell’s palsy often arrives without warning. One side of the face suddenly feels weak or unresponsive, an eye won’t close fully, or a smile looks uneven. These changes can be alarming, especially when they appear within hours.

It is always recommended to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you may have Bell’s Palsy. Doctors can rule out anything more serious and start medication that can help to minimize damage to the facial nerve. After you’ve seen a doctor and started the appropriate medication, most people are left to wait and hope for their symptoms to improve. Often, people recover from Bell’s palsy within a couple of weeks. For others, recovery can extend for months and may result in permanent facial muscle weakness and asymmetry.

Dealing with Bell’s palsy and facial paralysis can be an emotional experience. Many of my patients tell me they feel self-conscious about their appearance and are not comfortable going out and expressing themselves as they did previously. There are also practical concerns, such as constant tearing and irritation from a dry eye, and difficulty eating and drinking.

After receiving a diagnosis of Bell’s Palsy, people often come to see me for neuro-acupuncture treatment because they want to be proactive and maximize their healing. Neuro-acupuncture treatment is a modern, neurologically informed approach to supporting recovery of the facial nerve. Combining traditional acupuncture principles with contemporary neuroscience can provide targeted stimulation to support healing of the facial nerve, restore facial movement and symmetry, and improve confidence.

Understanding Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy is an acute paralysis or weakness of the facial muscles, typically affecting one side of the face. It occurs when the facial nerve—cranial nerve VII—becomes inflamed and compressed as it travels through a narrow bony canal near the ear.

Key Symptoms:

• Sudden facial weakness or paralysis
• Difficulty closing one eye
• Drooping of the mouth
• Loss of facial expression
• Tenderness in the neck, ear or jaw
• Changes in taste or tear production
• Sensitivity to sound on the affected side
  
  Symptoms usually peak within 48–72 hours. While many people recover within weeks, others experience prolonged weakness and an incomplete recovery.

What Causes It?

Although the exact cause isn’t always clear, several triggers are commonly associated with Bell’s palsy:

• Viral infections
• Upper respiratory illness
• Stress or immune system strain
• Trauma or dental procedures
• Pregnancy or postpartum changes
  
  Regardless of the trigger, the underlying issue is the same: inflammation and compression disrupt the nerve’s ability to send signals to the facial muscles.

How Neuro-acupuncture Helps the Facial Nerve Heal

Neuro-acupuncture blends classical acupuncture with modern neuroanatomy. Rather than relying solely on traditional point theory, it focuses on neuroanatomy and physiology to stimulate the body’s natural healing response along the facial nerve's precise pathways and the muscles it innervates.

A Targeted Neurological Approach

During treatment, we will evaluate which branches of the facial nerve are affected by observing your ability to:

• Raise your eyebrows
• Close your eyes tightly
• Smile or show your teeth
• Puff your cheeks
• Move your lips symmetrically
  
  This assessment guides a customized treatment plan that stimulates the specific nerve branches responsible for impaired movement.

Why Early Intervention Matters

The facial nerve is highly sensitive to inflammation. When swelling persists, the nerve can become compressed inside its bony canal, slowing healing and increasing the risk of long-term complications.

Early Neuro-acupuncture Helps:

1. Reduce inflammation and promote organized healing and remodeling of damaged nerves (3)
2. Prevent synkinesis (unintended muscle movements that can occur with incomplete recovery) (1)
3. Improve overall recovery time (4)
   
   Even if weeks or months have passed, neuro-acupuncture can still support meaningful improvement. The facial nerve retains the capacity for regeneration, and targeted stimulation can help re-establish proper signalling.

What the Research Shows

A growing body of research supports acupuncture for Bell’s palsy:

• A randomized controlled trial showed improved facial nerve function and reduced stiffness with acupuncture treatment (1).
• Meta-analyses including 26 studies and 3069 people found electroacupuncture combined with steroid and antiviral medication to be the most successful in preventing long-term symptoms (2).
• Early intervention studies demonstrate shorter recovery times and better long-term outcomes (4).
  
  While no single therapy guarantees full recovery, acupuncture consistently shows strong potential as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

A Supportive Path Toward Recovery

Bell’s palsy can be emotionally challenging, but there is more you can do than just waiting and hoping for the best. Neuro-acupuncture offers a gentle, evidence-informed approach that supports the facial nerve’s natural healing process. With timely care, personalized treatment, and compassionate guidance, many people regain their facial mobility, comfort, and confidence.

Jennifer Midlane is a neuro-acupuncturist practicing at Acacia Health Clinic in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing care for those with neurological conditions by integrating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.

References

1)     Kwon HJ, Choi JY, Lee MS, Kim YS, Shin BC, Kim JI. Acupuncture for the sequelae of Bell's palsy: a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 2015 Jun 3;16:246. doi: 10.1186/s13063-015-0777-z. PMID: 26037730; PMCID: PMC4507312.

2)     Shi J, Lu D, Chen H, Shu M, Xu Y, Qian J, Ouyang K, Huang H, Luo Z, Wang C, Zhang Y. Efficacy and Safety of Pharmacological and Physical Therapies for Bell's Palsy: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol. 2022 Apr 18;13:868121. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.868121. PMID: 35528739; PMCID: PMC9074786.

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

4)     Yang LS, Zhou DF, Zheng SZ, Zhao BM, Li HG, Chen QQ, Zhong Y, Yang HZ, Zhang K, Tang CZ. Early intervention with acupuncture improves the outcome of patients with Bell's palsy: A propensity score-matching analysis. Front Neurol. 2022 Sep 14;13:943453. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2022.943453. PMID: 36188388; PMCID: PMC9517937.

Every spinal cord injury and recovery process is unique. There is no way to predict how much recovery will occur or which symptoms may arise along the way. Anybody who has a spinal cord injury understands how challenging it can be to adapt to a new body and be left wondering; how much will I heal?

Although much of the current research on spinal cord injury recovery focuses on modern technologies, such as spinal implants and stem cell therapy, numerous studies and reviews are shedding light on how acupuncture, a traditional medical technique, can provide a protective and healing effect following a spinal cord injury.

Below, we’ll go over the classification of spinal cord injuries, then delve into the physiological changes that acupuncture can stimulate to support healing. Using a contemporary scientific framework, we’ll examine how current research shows that acupuncture can harness the body's natural healing potential and help individuals with spinal cord injuries optimize their healing outcomes.

How Are Spinal Cord Injuries Classified?

When someone sustains a spinal cord injury, healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough neurological assessment using the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale. This scale, ranging from A to E, helps determine the extent of motor and sensory function below the injury level and guides the path forward.

Understanding the ASIA Scale

The ASIA Impairment Scale is a standardized tool used to assess the degree of neurological function after a spinal cord injury:

ASIA A (Complete Injury): No motor or sensory function is preserved below the level of injury. As emergency medical care improves, outcomes for people with ASIA A scores have increased over recent decades; studies show a 13% chance of regaining some motor function and a 30% chance of recovering some sensory function (9,14). These rates can vary significantly depending on the spinal level and mechanism of injury. 

ASIA B–D (Incomplete Injury): Some motor and/or sensory function remains below the level of injury. Individuals in this category have a 40% chance of regaining additional function (11).

As healing progresses, reassessment is important and can lead to an improved ASIA score.

When a person sustains a spinal cord injury and receives their initial ASIA score, it is important to remember that this is the starting point on their healing journey. Many factors influence recovery, including the nature of the injury, age, access to timely medical care and rehabilitation programs, and support from family or community. The most significant improvements often occur within the first 18 months; however, many individuals continue to improve at a slower rate for years after the injury (15).

The Role of Acupuncture in Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

The spinal cord is a vital component of the central nervous system, serving as a superhighway for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Unlike other tissues that regenerate quickly, the spinal cord is a delicate environment that is extremely sensitive to the bleeding, inflammation and scar tissue that accompany an injury.

By helping attenuate the local environment within the spinal cord following an injury, acupuncture is a unique therapy that can help improve the spinal cord's healing process.

Here Are the Top Three Ways That Acupuncture Can Help with Spinal Cord Healing:

1)     Enhancing Microcirculation: Fueling the Healing Process

One of the major challenging factors after a spinal cord injury is poor blood flow to the damaged area. The injury can damage blood vessels or cause them to rupture, leading to reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery, which are essential for tissue repair and regeneration. This lack of circulation also slows the removal of waste products and inflammatory molecules, which can worsen the injury over time.

As recommended by the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, doctors will use medication to artificially raise blood pressure for 7 days after a spinal cord injury. This is done to improve circulation to the injured spinal cord, and has been shown to improve healing outcomes (2). Acupuncture can also be used to help improve blood flow and studies have demonstrated it's ability to increase microcirculation by decreasing capillary refill time in healthy adults (18). This enhanced blood flow to injured tissues plays a key role in acupuncture's healing effects.

Acupuncture has also been shown to stimulate the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that promotes the formation of new blood vessels and regulates endothelin receptors, which control blood vessel constriction (7). Together, these effects help restore healthy blood flow, reduce tissue stress, and support the body's natural healing mechanisms.

2)     Reducing Glial Scarring: Clearing the Path for Nerve Regrowth

The spinal cord is composed of neurons that transmit nerve impulses and other helper cells, called glial cells. The glial cells don’t transmit nerve signals but perform various functions, such as supporting and nourishing neurons, forming the myelin sheath around nerves, stimulating inflammation after injury, and helping clear waste and debris.

There is a special type of glial cell called an astrocyte. Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that play a crucial role in spinal cord health and protection. They form the blood-spinal cord barrier and, by regulating blood flow, maintain the proper environment for neurons to thrive.

Astrocytes also play an important role after a spinal cord injury. The astrocytes form a protective barrier around the injured portion of the spinal cord, called a glial scar. This is a unique type of scar found only in the brain and spinal cord. While this scar initially helps stabilize the injury site, it also creates a physical blockade that prevents new nerve fibers from growing through the damaged area. These scars are a unique fibrous web of tissue composed of astrocytes and proteins that inhibit axonal regeneration.

Acupuncture has been shown in animal models to initially increase glial cell expression, which stops the spread of damage to neighbouring areas. Later, the effect of acupuncture shifts to reduce the expression of scar-forming astrocytes, thus limiting the secondary growth of fibrous scar tissue and making it more permissive for nerve regeneration (3,4). This is a remarkable finding that demonstrates acupuncture's unique ability to enhance the body’s natural response and healing processes as they shift in subsequent stages of healing. By modulating the cellular environment, acupuncture helps create a more favourable landscape for neural repair and functional recovery.

3)     Activating Neural Stem Cells: Rebuilding from Within

Neural stem cells are the body’s internal repair system, capable of transforming into neurons and other types of cells, including the helper glial cells. However, after a spinal cord injury, inflammation and oxidative stress can suppress their activity. Studies have shown that acupuncture with electrical stimulation promotes the release of mesenchymal stem cells, which can turn into functional neurons (12). This process is supported by acupuncture’s ability to regulate neurotrophic factors, proteins that support neuronal survival and growth. By activating these stem cells and supporting proteins, acupuncture encourages neuroplasticity and the rebuilding of damaged neural pathways (7).

A Holistic Path to Healing

To date, numerous preclinical studies demonstrate that acupuncture stimulates and enhances the nervous system's healing potential in animal models. Smaller clinical studies in humans have shown that acupuncture treatment improves motor function, sensation, and bladder function following spinal cord injury (5,1,10,18). Although there is still a need for larger clinical studies to help authenticate these findings, acupuncture has proven to be a safe and effective treatment that improves healing outcomes following a spinal cord injury.

While conventional rehabilitation focuses on physical therapy, medication, and surgical interventions, research shows that acupuncture offers a synergistic healing effect rooted in both traditional medicine and modern neuroscience.

For individuals navigating the challenges of recovery following a spinal cord injury, acupuncture may help improve neurological function and ease some of the new daily challenges of life. By supporting the body’s innate healing mechanisms, acupuncture helps bridge the gap between injury and recovery.

Jennifer Midlane is a neuro-acupuncturist practicing in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing care for those with neurological conditions by integrating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.

References

1) Cheng, P. T., Wong, M. K., & Chang, P. L. (1998). A therapeutic trial of acupuncture in neurogenic bladder of spinal cord injured patients: A preliminary report. Spinal Cord, 36(7), 476–480. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.sc.3100689
2) Hadley, M. N., Walters, B. C., Grabb, P. A., Oyesiku, N. M., Przybylski, G. J., Resnick, D. K., & Ryken, T. C. (2002). Blood pressure management after acute spinal cord injury. Neurosurgery, 50(3 Suppl), S58–S62. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006123-200203001-00012
3) Hai, Z., Luxi, C., Zhao, P., Sisi, Z., Shiqi, W., Zhuowen, L., Minan, C., Shujun, L., & Yimin, Z. (2023). Efficacy of acupuncture on repair of glial scars in rats with traumatic brain injury. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 43(2), 329–336. https://doi.org/10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20221226.003
4) Hong, E. S., Yao, H. H., Min, Y. J., Sun, J., Zhou, X., Zeng, X. B., & Yu, W. (2021). The mechanism of electroacupuncture for treating spinal cord injury rats by mediating Rho/Rho-associated kinase signaling pathway. Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 44(3), 364–374. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2019.1665612
5) Honjo, H., Naya, Y., Ukimura, O., Kojima, M., & Miki, T. (2000). Acupuncture on clinical symptoms and urodynamic measurements in spinal-cord-injured patients with detrusor hyperreflexia. Urologia Internationalis, 65(4), 190–195. https://doi.org/10.1159/000064874
6) Hou, J., Xiang, Z., Yan, R., Zhao, M., Wu, Y., Zhong, J., Guo, L., Li, H., Wang, J., Wu, J., Sun, T., & Liu, H. (2016). Motor recovery at 6 months after admission is related to structural and functional reorganization of the spine and brain in patients with spinal cord injury. Human Brain Mapping, 37(6), 2195–2209. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.23163
7) Jiang, K., Sun, Y., & Chen, X. (2022). Mechanism underlying acupuncture therapy in spinal cord injury: A narrative overview of preclinical studies. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 13, 875103. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.875103
8) Kirshblum, S., Snider, B., Eren, F., & Guest, J. (2021). Characterizing natural recovery after traumatic spinal cord injury. Journal of Neurotrauma, 38(9), 1267–1284. https://doi.org/10.1089/neu.2020.7473
9) Marino, R. J., Leff, M., Cardenas, D. D., Donovan, J., Chen, D., Kirshblum, S., & Leiby, B. E. (2020). Trends in rates of ASIA Impairment Scale conversion in traumatic complete spinal cord injury. Neurotrauma Reports, 1(1), 192–200. https://doi.org/10.1089/neur.2020.0038
10) Norrbrink, C., & Lundeberg, T. (2011). Acupuncture and massage therapy for neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury: An exploratory study. Acupuncture in Medicine, 29(2), 108–115. https://doi.org/10.1136/aim.2010.003269
11) North American Spinal Cord Injury Consortium. (2025, March 16). The ASIA impairment scale. NASCIC SCI Knowledge Base. https://nascic.org/the-asia-impairment-scale/
12) Salazar TE, Richardson MR, Beli E, Ripsch MS, George J, Kim Y, Duan Y, Moldovan L, Yan Y, Bhatwadekar A, Jadhav V, Smith JA, McGorray S, Bertone AL, Traktuev DO, March KL, Colon-Perez LM, Avin KG, Sims E, Mund JA, Case J, Deng X, Kim MS, McDavitt B, Boulton ME, Thinschmidt J, Li Calzi S, Fitz SD, Fuchs RK, Warden SJ, McKinley T, Shekhar A, Febo M, Johnson PL, Chang LJ, Gao Z, Kolonin MG, Lai S, Ma J, Dong X, White FA, Xie H, Yoder MC, Grant MB. Electroacupuncture Promotes Central Nervous System-Dependent Release of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Stem Cells. 2017 May;35(5):1303-1315. doi: 10.1002/stem.2613. PMID: 28299842; PMCID: PMC5530374.
13) Silver, J., & Miller, J. (2004). Regeneration beyond the glial scar. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 5, 146–156. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn1326
14) Spiess, M. R., Müller, R. M., Rupp, R., Schuld, C., EM-SCI Study Group, & van Hedel, H. J. (2009). Conversion in ASIA Impairment Scale during the first year after traumatic spinal cord injury. Journal of Neurotrauma, 26(11), 2027–2036. https://doi.org/10.1089/neu.2008.0760
15) Stenimahitis, V., Gharios, M., Fletcher-Sandersjöö, A., El-Hajj, V. G., Singh, A., Buwaider, A., Andersson, M., Gerdhem, P., Hultling, C., Elmi-Terander, A., & Edström, E. (2024). Long-term outcome and predictors of neurological recovery in cervical spinal cord injury: A population-based cohort study. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 20945. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-71983-2
16) Tran, A. P., Warren, P. M., & Silver, J. (2022). New insights into glial scar formation after spinal cord injury. Cell and Tissue Research, 387(3), 319–336. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00441-021-03477-w
17) Wang, H., Song, G., Chuang, H., Chiu, C., Abdelmaksoud, A., Ye, Y., & Zhao, L. (2018). Portrait of glial scar in neurological diseases. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, 31, 2058738418801406. https://doi.org/10.1177/2058738418801406
18) Wong, A. M., Leong, C. P., Su, T. Y., Yu, S. W., Tsai, W. C., & Chen, C. P. (2003). Clinical trial of acupuncture for patients with spinal cord injuries. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 82(1), 21–27. https://doi.org/10.1097/00002060-200301000-00004
19) Yeh, B. Y., Chao, Y. L., Chen, Y. S., & Yu, H. P. (2021). Effect of acupuncture on capillary refill time in healthy adults: A clinical study. Microvascular Research, 135, 104135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mvr.2021.104135

Nerve pain, also known as neuropathic pain, is unlike any other kind of pain. It doesn’t stem from a sprained ankle or a pulled muscle. Instead, it originates from damage or dysfunction within the nervous system itself. For many people, it feels like burning, stabbing, or electric shocks. Others describe it as numbness, tingling, or a crawling sensation under the skin. However it shows up, nerve pain can be relentless, and deeply disruptive to daily life.

What Makes Nerve Pain Unique?

Unlike pain caused by inflammation or injury to tissues, nerve pain arises from faulty signaling in the nervous system. Damaged nerves may send pain signals even when there’s no actual threat or injury. This can happen due to:

• Physical trauma
• Stroke or spinal cord injury
• Autoimmune conditions like MS
• Certain medications or toxin exposure

What’s especially challenging is that nerve pain often persists long after the original injury has healed. It can become chronic, affecting sleep, mood, and mobility.

Why Conventional Medicine Struggles with Nerve Pain

Treating nerve pain with conventional medicine is notoriously difficult. Medications like anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and opioids are often prescribed, but they come with side effects and don’t always provide lasting relief. Many patients find themselves cycling through different drugs, hoping for something that works.

One reason for this challenge is that nerve pain involves complex changes in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, the nervous system can become hypersensitive—a phenomenon known as central sensitization—where even gentle movement or a light touch can trigger intense pain. Sometimes the pain is constant and severe with no identifiable cause. 

How Neuro-Acupuncture Offers a New Path to Healing

Neuro-acupuncture is a specialized form of acupuncture that targets the nervous system directly. It blends Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern neuroscience to stimulate nerve repair, regulate pain pathways, and restore balance. What makes neuro-acupuncture really shine is that it naturally stimulates your body's own healing processes to allow for healing of the nervous system with minimal side effects. 

Here’s how it helps:

1. Stimulates Nerve Repair and Regeneration

Neuro-acupuncture promotes the release of nerve growth factors and activates genes involved in neurogenesis. This supports the repair of damaged nerves and helps reverse maladaptive changes in the nervous system.

2. Reduces Pain Signals and Inflammation

By stimulating specific acupuncture points, neuro-acupuncture calms overactive pain pathways and reduces inflammation. It also triggers the release of endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers.

3. Enhances Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to rewire itself. Neuro-acupuncture encourages this process, helping the brain and spinal cord adapt and recover from injury. This is especially important for people with chronic nerve pain, stroke, or spinal cord injuries.

4. Regulates the Autonomic Nervous System

Many people with nerve pain also experience dysautonomia—an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system. Neuro-acupuncture helps restore harmony between the “fight or flight” and “rest and digest” systems, promoting deep relaxation and healing.

A Gentle, Holistic Approach

Treatments are specific to each individual and the area of their nervous system that is injured or imbalanced. Many patients report feeling calmer and less burdened by pain after just the first treatment.

If you’re living with nerve pain and feeling stuck, neuro-acupuncture offers an alternative tool that can make a huge difference. It’s not just about masking symptoms—it’s about activating your body’s natural ability to heal.

Jennifer Midlane is a neuro-acupuncturist practicing in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing care for those with neurological conditions by integrating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.

References

1) Mehta, S., et al. (2013). Neuropathic pain post spinal cord injury part 1: Systematic review of physical and behavioral treatment. Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation, 19(1), 61–77. https://doi.org/10.1310/sci1901-61
2) Yang Y, et al. (2023). Application and underlying mechanism of acupuncture for nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 17, 1253438. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2023.1253438
3) Fan AY, et al. (2017). Acupuncture’s role in solving the opioid epidemic. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 15(6), 411–425. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2095-4964(17)60378-9
4) Dorsher PT & McIntosh PM. (2011). Acupuncture’s effects in treating spinal cord injuries. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 428108. https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nep010
5) Hamvas S, et al. (2023). Acupuncture increases parasympathetic tone: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 72, 102905. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2022.102905

A spinal cord injury can turn life upside down in the blink of an eye. One moment, everything feels familiar—and the next, you're navigating a world that looks completely different. The physical and emotional hurdles can feel overwhelming, not just for individuals but also for their families.

In Canada, more than 86,000 people are living with the effects of a spinal cord injury. Each of them has faced the same daunting question: What now?

In recent decades, we’ve made remarkable strides in understanding what happens in the body after a spinal cord injury and the potential for healing that can occur in the months and years that follow. While every person’s journey is unique, the hope of regaining function and independence is something every person affected by spinal cord injury holds onto.

Canada is home to world-class doctors and rehabilitation centers that specialize in helping people rebuild their lives after an injury. But even with exceptional care and advances in technology, recovery most often comes with daily struggles—pain, mobility challenges and issues with bladder function—that can weigh heavily on quality of life.

In China, neuro-acupuncture is considered a core part of post-injury care. With decades of clinical experience and refinement, physicians there have developed specialized acupuncture techniques to support recovery from spinal cord injuries. As access to neuro-acupuncture spreads, this approach is gaining global traction—not just for its effectiveness, but because it’s gentle on the body, has minimal side effects, and uniquely activates the nervous system’s natural capacity to heal and adapt.

Inspired by emerging research, more people in Canada are discovering that neuro-acupuncture is a unique method for stimulating recovery after a spinal cord injury. It can lead to meaningful functional improvements and is especially helpful when initiated early after injury and combined with physical therapy.

Neuro-acupuncture is most helpful in contributing to healing in the following areas:

Movement

• Improving motor function, particularly when combined with exercise therapy (6)(11)
• Promoting recovery of motor neurons and nerve regeneration in the spinal cord, helping enhance movement in affected limbs (2)(4)

Sensation and Pain

• Can improve acute and chronic pain resulting from spinal cord injury, the most significant results are shown in incomplete injuries (2)
• Improving sensation measured by increased scores on soft touch and pin prick sensation testing (4)

Bladder Function

• Stimulating recovery of neurogenic bladder dysfunction, leading to improvements in continence and volitional voiding (10)
• Reducing residual urine volume and increasing bladder capacity, as confirmed in clinical trials combining acupuncture with catheterization (5)
   

Living with a spinal cord injury brings challenges that affect every corner of life, from how we move to how we feel and function day to day. But recovery is not a fixed destination; it’s a journey shaped by resilience, support, and innovation.

In Canada, while we benefit from cutting-edge medical care and rehabilitation, there’s growing recognition that healing can take many forms. Neuro-acupuncture offers a promising complement to conventional therapies, harnessing both modern neuroscience and time-honoured healing techniques to activate the body’s natural ability for repair. As awareness grows, neuro-acupuncture may help redefine what's possible for thousands of Canadians rebuilding their lives after a spinal cord injury. The future of spinal cord recovery is not only about science—it’s about giving people more choices and continually improving the limitations and outcomes for healing.

Jennifer Midlane is a neuro-acupuncturist practicing in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing care for those with neurological conditions by integrating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.

References

1.       Dragomir, M. F., Pestean, C. P., Melega, I., Danciu, C. G., Purdoiu, R. C., & Oana, L. (2021). Current aspects regarding the clinical relevance of electroacupuncture in dogs with spinal cord injury: A literature review. Animals, 11(1), 219. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11010219
2.       Dorsher, P. T., & McIntosh, P. M. (2011). Acupuncture's effects in treating the sequelae of acute and chronic spinal cord injuries: A review of allopathic and traditional Chinese medicine literature. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 428108. https://doi.org/10.1093/ecam/nep010
3.       Dyson-Hudson, T. A., Kadar, P., LaFountaine, M., Emmons, R., Kirshblum, S. C., Tulsky, D., & Komaroff, E. (2007). Acupuncture for chronic shoulder pain in persons with spinal cord injury: A small-scale clinical trial. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 88(10), 1276–1283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2007.06.014
4.       Fan, Q., Cavus, O., Xiong, L., & Xia, Y. (2018). Spinal cord injury: How could acupuncture help? Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 11(4), 124–132. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jams.2018.05.002
5.       Frontiers in Neurology. (2022). Comparative effectiveness of different acupuncture modalities for neurogenic bladder: A network meta-analysis. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fneur.2021.723424/pdf
6.       Heo, I., Shin, B. C., Kim, Y. D., Hwang, E. H., Han, C. W., & Heo, K. H. (2013). Acupuncture for spinal cord injury and its complications: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013, 364216. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/364216
7.       Journal of Neurotrauma. (2015). The impact of acupuncture on neurological recovery in spinal cord injury: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pure.bond.edu.au/ws/portalfiles/portal/32927244/AM_The_Impact_of_Acupuncture_on_Neurological_Recovery_in_Spinal_Cord_Injury.pdf
8.       Mehta, S., Orenczuk, K., McIntyre, A., Willems, G., Wolfe, D. L., Hsieh, J. T., Short, C., Loh, E., & Teasell, R. W. (2013). Neuropathic pain post spinal cord injury part 1: Systematic review of physical and behavioral treatment. Topics in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation, 19(1), 61–77. https://doi.org/10.1310/sci1901-61
9.       Rapson, L. M., Wells, N., Pepper, J., Majid, N., & Boon, H. (2003). Acupuncture as a promising treatment for below-level central neuropathic pain: A retrospective study. Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 26(1), 21–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/10790268.2003.11753655
10.   Wong, A. M., Leong, C. P., Su, T. Y., Yu, S. W., Tsai, W. C., & Chen, C. P. (2003). Clinical trial of acupuncture for patients with spinal cord injuries. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 82(1), 21–27. https://doi.org/10.1097/00002060-200301000-00004
11.   Xiong, F., Fu, C., Zhang, Q., Peng, L., Liang, Z., Chen, L., He, C., & Wei, Q. (2019). The effect of different acupuncture therapies on neurological recovery in spinal cord injury: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, 2371084. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/2371084
12.   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.

As a neuro-acupuncturist, I help people every day who are dealing with challenges caused by peripheral neuropathy—a condition affecting approximately 5% of people over the age of 45. Peripheral neuropathy can arise from various causes, such as diabetes, chemotherapy treatments, genetic factors, or for unknown reasons.

I often hear from patients that their peripheral neuropathy symptoms worsen during the winter months. This phenomenon is quite common, and there are several reasons why cold weather can exacerbate neuropathy pain.

1. Reduced Blood Flow

Our bodies produce a vast number of chemical reactions every moment of our lives in order to maintain proper function. These reactions have evolved to occur within a narrow temperature range of 36.5-37.5 degrees.

In cold weather, our bodies naturally restrict blood flow to the extremities to conserve heat and maintain core body temperature. This reduced blood flow means that the delicate nerves in our hands and feet don’t get as much oxygen and nutrients, making it harder for the nerves to function properly. This can increase nerve pain and discomfort for those with peripheral neuropathy.

2. Barometric Pressure Changes

Winter months bring more extreme changes in barometric pressure, which can significantly impact peripheral neuropathy symptoms. When barometric pressure increases, tissues contract, leading to decreased circulation and tight muscles and connective tissues. On the other hand, lower barometric pressure can cause excess fluid retention in tissues, resulting in congestion and swelling.

These fluctuations in atmospheric pressure can make it hard for your body to adapt it’s internal environment and lead to the worsening of uncomfortable symptoms from peripheral neuropathy.

3. Decreased Nerve Conduction

It is well-documented that nerve conduction, or the speed at which nerves can transmit a signal, slows in lower temperatures. This slowing effect can exacerbate symptoms for individuals with peripheral neuropathy, leading to increased burning, numbness, and tingling in the extremities. Reduced nerve conduction in cold weather can intensify discomfort, making daily activities more challenging for those affected by this condition.

4. Impact on Daily Activities

Some of the challenges faced by those with peripheral neuropathy include loss of sensation, muscle weakness and difficulty with balance. Winter weather, including rain, wind, ice and less daylight, can make it difficult to go outdoors and engage in physical activity. Reduced activity increases stiffness and pain, creating a vicious cycle of discomfort and inactivity.

Some of the strategies that I recommend to my patients to help manage their symptoms during the colder weather include using a warm hand or foot soak before bed when neuropathy sensations can be especially bothersome, drinking warm herbal teas with spices like ginger and cinnamon to help maintain body temperature and increase circulation, staying active indoors at our community rec centers and using neuro-acupuncture treatments to improve blood flow and nerve health.

If you are finding it challenging to deal with your symptoms, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive management plan tailored to your needs.

Jennifer Midlane is a neuro-acupuncturist practicing in Victoria, British Columbia. She focuses on providing care for those with neurological conditions by integrating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern scientific research.

References

Castellani, J. W., & Young, A. J. (2016). Human physiological responses to cold exposure: Acute responses and acclimatization to prolonged exposure. Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic & Clinical, 196, 63–74. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autneu.2016.02.009

Halar, E. M., DeLisa, J. A., & Brozovich, F. V. (1981). Peroneal nerve conduction velocity: The importance of temperature correction. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 62(9), 439–443. PMID: 7283685

(2023). How Changes in Weather Affect Joint Pain. Cleaveland Clinic. Retrieved Jan 16, 2025 from, https://health.clevelandclinic.org/barometric-pressure-joint-pain

Kasselman, L. J., Veves, A., Gibbons, C. H., & Rutkove, S. B. (2009). Cold exposure exacerbates the development of diabetic polyneuropathy in the rat. Experimental Diabetes Research, 2009, Article 827943. https://doi.org/10.1155/2009/827943

Moses, B., Nelson, R. M., Nelson, A. J. Jr., & Cheifetz, P. (2007). The relationship between skin temperature and neuronal characteristics in the median, ulnar, and radial nerves of non-impaired individuals. Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology, 47(7–8), 351–360. PMID: 18051629

Nelson, R., Agro, J., Lugo, J., et al. (2004). The relationship between temperature and neuronal characteristics. Electromyography and Clinical Neurophysiology, 44(4), 209–216. PMID: 15224815

Rutkove, S. B. (2001). Effects of temperature on neuromuscular electrophysiology. Muscle & Nerve, 24(7), 867–882. https://doi.org/10.1002/mus.1084

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a challenging condition for many people who have had cancer. It can cause pain, numbness, and tingling that can significantly affect your quality of life, even after your cancer treatments have ended. Thankfully, recent research has shed light on acupuncture as an effective treatment option for CIPN.

A recent meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Neurology dives into the benefits of acupuncture in managing CIPN. The researchers analyzed several clinical studies and found that acupuncture not only reduces pain and sensory symptoms but also supports nerve function, which can be compromised during chemotherapy. This approach holds promise as an accessible and non-invasive way to relieve CIPN symptoms.

One compelling aspect of acupuncture’s effect on CIPN is its ability to promote nerve repair and reduce inflammation. Acupuncture activates certain pathways in the brain and nervous system that help mitigate pain and numbness, making it an integrative, holistic treatment.

As research continues to support the therapeutic benefits of acupuncture, it’s encouraging to see such promising applications for people living with chemotherapy-related challenges. If you’re considering integrative options, acupuncture may be a path to explore in consultation with your healthcare provider.

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.

Reference

Li, L., Huang, Y., An, C., Jing, N., Xu, C., Wang, X., Li, H., & Tan, T. (2024). Acupuncture in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: A meta-analysis and data mining. Frontiers in Neurology, 15, 1442841. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1442841

1. Neuro-Acupuncture Provides Natural Pain Relief

Neuro-acupuncture is highly effective at managing pain by stimulating nerve endings that trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers. It also helps reduce inflammation and balance blood flow to the affected areas, making it a powerful tool for conditions like nerve pain, migraines, and neuropathy. By activating these nerve pathways, neuro-acupuncture relieves pain and stimulates healing.

2. Neuro-Acupuncture Can Rewire the Brain

Neuro-acupuncture influences how the brain processes signals. It stimulates neuroplasticity and restores connectivity to the brain following illness or injury. By targeting specific brain regions, neuro-acupuncture can help improve connectivity within the brain, making it a useful treatment for conditions like MS, concussion and stroke recovery. This ability to restructure neural pathways is why neuro-acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of neurological and mental health conditions.

3. Neuro-Acupuncture Balances the Nervous System to Regulate Dysautonomia

Neuro-acupuncture plays a key role in regulating the autonomic nervous system (ANS), especially for those with dysautonomia, a condition where the ANS has become imbalanced. The sympathetic nervous system controls the "fight or flight" response, while the parasympathetic nervous system handles "rest, digest, and healing." When these systems are out of balance, neuro-acupuncture can help calm an overactive sympathetic response and enhance parasympathetic activity, restoring harmony and helping the body return to a balanced state of relaxation and healing. This makes neuro-acupuncture a natural and effective treatment for managing the symptoms of dysautonomia.

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.

References

Fan, A. Y., Miller, D. W., Bolash, B., Bauer, M., McDonald, J., Faggert, S., He, H., Li, Y. M., Matecki, A., Camardella, L., Koppelman, M. H., Stone, J. A. M., Meade, L., & Pang, J. (2017). Acupuncture's role in solving the opioid epidemic: Evidence, cost-effectiveness, and care availability for acupuncture as a primary, non-pharmacologic method for pain relief and management. Journal of Integrative Medicine, 15(6), 411-425. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2095-4964(17)60378-9

Hamvas, S., Hegyi, P., Kiss, S., Lohner, S., McQueen, D., & Havasi, M. (2023). Acupuncture increases parasympathetic tone, modulating HRV: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 72, 102905. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2022.102905

Yang, Y., Rao, C., Yin, T., Wang, S., Shi, H., Yan, X., Zhang, L., Meng, X., Gu, W., Du, Y., & Hong, F. (2023). Application and underlying mechanism of acupuncture for nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury: Remodeling of nerve system. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 17, 1253438. https://doi.org/10.3389/fncel.2023.1253438