According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 20 million people in the United States suffer from peripheral neuropathy. The NIH also notes that it is particularly common among those suffering from diabetes.
So, what is peripheral neuropathy and can acupuncture help to relieve its symptoms?
Peripheral Neuropathy Defined
Medical professionals define peripheral neuropathy as a disease affecting the nerves that causes weakness, numbness and pain in the feet and hands. Symptoms vary but can include tingling and/or numbness in the hands and feet, sharp, stabbing pain, a weak or heavy feeling in the arms and legs and even a drop in blood pressure for some.
How Acupuncture Can Help
Although more research is being done, early research does suggest that acupuncture can help with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. A pilot study done in 2007 provided promising results and a 2017 study also found that, “acupuncture appears to improve nerve conduction study parameters in both sensory and motor nerves.”
In addition to improving the immune system and improving the flow of energy in the body, acupuncture can work to relax muscles and reduce pain.
It’s important to have a proper medical diagnosis; I will then take a complete health history, determine the underlying cause, and provide the proper treatment recommendations.
If you suffer from peripheral neuropathy, acupuncture treatment just might provide the relief you are looking for.
