Is acupuncture good for neuropathy?

If there has been nerve damage or diminished sensation, we target treatment in these areas to re-stimulate those nerve fibers." Indeed, studies show that acupuncture is an effective treatment for peripheral neuropathy, with fewer side effects than medications.


What is the fastest way to cure neuropathy?

Regular exercise, such as walking three times a week, can reduce neuropathy pain, improve muscle strength and help control blood sugar levels. Gentle routines such as yoga and tai chi might also help.

What is the best treatment for neuropathy?

The main medicines recommended for neuropathic pain include:
  • amitriptyline – also used for treatment of headaches and depression.
  • duloxetine – also used for treatment of bladder problems and depression.
  • pregabalin and gabapentin – also used to treat epilepsy, headaches or anxiety.


Can acupuncture heal neuropathy?

Many people with neuropathy turn to acupuncture to relieve their chronic pain. Acupuncture also stimulates blood flow to restore nerve damage. Though research is still being done to test the effectiveness of acupuncture on peripheral neuropathy, there have been some successful studies.

How long does it take for acupuncture to work for nerve pain?

If you were in the acupuncture clinic for acute pain or sports injury, you may notice the pain relief almost instantly from the first treatment. For chronic pain, it may take up to 2 or 3 sessions to notice the pain subside.


Benefits of Acupuncture for Neuropathy | Dana-Farber Zakim Center Remote Programming



Can Chinese medicine help neuropathy?

Acupuncture and TCM offer a safe alternative for treating neuropathy symptoms stemming from diabetes, chemotherapy, inflammatory and other conditions.

What happens if acupuncture hits a nerve?

If a needle hits a small nerve, muscle, or blood vessel, you may feel some pain or a more intense sensation. A single sensation is OK as long as it's brief. Points on the extremities are more likely to produce stronger reactions in the form of dull aches or tingling sensations.

When should you not use acupuncture?

As with any medical treatment, there are certain contraindications for acupuncture treatments, including:
  1. Drug or alcohol intoxication.
  2. Use of a pacemaker.
  3. A seizure disorder.
  4. Bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or use of blood thinners.
  5. Infections skin disorder or disease.


When should acupuncture be avoided?

Most practitioners agree that acupuncture should not be utilized in the following situations "active infection, especially cutaneous, malignancy, as there might be a threat of the spread of neoplastic cells; and severe neutropenia secondary to the risk of infection".

How many acupuncture sessions are needed for neuropathy?

The hitch: You might need multiple sessions before you notice improvement. A typical treatment course consists of weekly sessions for 6 to 10 weeks, followed by maintenance sessions beginning every other week and extending to once every month.

What is the latest treatment for neuropathy?

Intraneural Facilitation (INF) treatment effectively restores blood flow to damaged nerves, decreasing pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), according to a new study conducted by researchers at Loma Linda University Health.


What vitamin is used for neuropathy?

Vitamin B-12 is present in some foods and helps with proper nerve function and red blood cell production. People who don't get enough vitamin B-12 may have a higher risk of neuropathy and other nervous system (neurological) problems.

What are the disadvantages of acupuncture?

The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner using sterile needles. Common side effects include soreness and minor bleeding or bruising where the needles were inserted. Single-use, disposable needles are now the practice standard, so the risk of infection is minimal.

Can acupuncture help circulation in legs?

Acupuncture can help people with poor leg circulation by using acupuncture at certain points. Acupuncture needling at certain points on the body can get the energy moving again – which will improve blood circulation to the legs and other parts of the body.


What should you not do after acupuncture?

Not-to-Dos After Acupuncture
  • Intense physical activities. ...
  • Massage or other manual therapy. ...
  • Sauna or Bath. ...
  • Coffee or Alcohol. ...
  • Ice packs. ...
  • Allow extra time to relax after acupuncture. ...
  • Allow extra time for nap or sleep. ...
  • Allow emotions to flow openly.


Is there a true cure for neuropathy?

There is indeed no treatment available that can cure or reverse neuropathy. There are, however, several medical approaches that can help stop neuropathy from getting worse. And there are effective ways to help alleviate the symptoms of neuropathy.

Will my neuropathy ever go away?

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may lessen or go away over time, but in some cases they never go away. These are some ways to learn to live with it: Use pain medicines as your doctor prescribes them. Most pain medicines work best if they are taken before the pain gets bad.


Is massaging good for neuropathy?

Massage therapy can be beneficial if you have neuropathy — numbness, tingling or pain — in your hands and feet. This is particularly common in cancer survivors.

What makes neuropathy worse?

Nutritional or vitamin imbalances, alcoholism, and exposure to toxins can damage nerves and cause neuropathy. Vitamin B12 deficiency and excess vitamin B6 are the best known vitamin-related causes.

What is a good home remedy for neuropathy of the feet?

Natural Treatments for Neuropathy in Your Legs and Feet
  • Vitamins and Supplements. Many cases of peripheral neuropathy can be related to deficiencies of certain vitamins. ...
  • Cayenne Pepper. ...
  • Warm Baths. ...
  • Quit Smoking. ...
  • Essential Oils. ...
  • Exercise. ...
  • Meditation. ...
  • Acupuncture.


How do you stop neuropathy from getting worse?

Lifestyle choices can play a role in preventing peripheral neuropathy. You can lessen your risk for many of these conditions by avoiding alcohol, correcting vitamin deficiencies, eating a healthy diet, losing weight, avoiding toxins, and exercising regularly.

Does drinking water help neuropathy?

Drink lots of water

Water should be a staple in any diet, and even more so for those looking to reduce nerve pain. It's critical to stay hydrated throughout the day to reduce inflammation and avoid triggering pain receptors. Aim to drink eight 8-oz. of water each day.

Do compression socks help neuropathy?

Compression socks can help patients manage their neuropathy symptoms. These socks apply pressure to assist your feet and ensure blood keeps flowing in the correct direction. However, compression socks come in various compression levels, so it's important to speak to a doctor before purchasing a pair.


Can acupuncture make things worse?

Other side effects of acupuncture that are less welcome are: Sometimes following acupuncture, some feel worse before they start feeling better. People can feel tired after acupuncture. A more common result is increased energy.

Can acupuncture worsen a condition?

Can acupuncture make things worse? Temporarily, yes, but it's not common. If you've been ill for a long time, or your issues are quite complex with lots of different things going on when you have acupuncture treatment it can move a lot of stuck energy.