Neuropathy

Neuropathy refers to a group of disorders characterized by damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness. It can result from various causes, including diabetes, chemotherapy, infections, or underlying medical conditions. Neuropathy often presents as chronic pain and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life.

Acupuncture, an integral component of Traditional Chinese Medicine, has garnered attention as a complementary therapy for individuals with chronic neuropathic pain. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, stimulating the body's natural healing responses. The potential benefits of acupuncture for chronic neuropathic pain include:

1. Pain Management: Acupuncture may help alleviate neuropathic pain by promoting the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers, and modulating the perception of pain.
2. Nerve Function: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may have a neuroprotective effect, potentially promoting nerve regeneration and repair, which is particularly relevant for neuropathic conditions.
3. Improved Circulation: Acupuncture is believed to enhance blood circulation, potentially helping to provide essential nutrients to damaged nerves and improving their function.
4. Reduced Medication Dependence: By offering an alternative or adjunct to medication for pain management, acupuncture may reduce the reliance on pain-relieving drugs with associated side effects.
5. Enhanced Quality of Life: Acupuncture may alleviate associated symptoms of anxiety and depression, contributing to an improved overall sense of well-being and functionality.

Notable studies have shed light on the effectiveness of acupuncture for Neuropathy:

• Dimitrova, A., Murchison, C., & Oken, B. (2017). Acupuncture for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 23(3), 164–179. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2016.0155
• Feng Zitong, Cui Shaoyang, Yang Huijun, Wang Yixiao, Zhou Xuan, Wong John, Lai Liting, Yang Zeyu, Huang Bingjing, Zheng Huiyan, Xu Mingzhu (2023). Acupuncture for neuropathic pain: A meta-analysis of randomized control trials. Frontiers in Neurology 13. 10.3389/fneur.2022.1076993
• Ming-Cheng Huang, Sheng-Chi Chang, Wen-Ling Liao, Tao-Wei Ke, Ai-Lin Lee, Hwei-Ming Wang, Che-Pin Chang, Hung-Rong Yen, Hen-Hong Chang, William Tzu-Liang Chen, Acupuncture May Help to Prevent Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Single-Blind Study, The Oncologist, Volume 28, Issue 6, June 2023, Pages e436–e447, https://doi.org/10.1093/oncolo/oyad065