Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy and How Acupuncture Can Provide Relief
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for transmitting signals between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body. This damage can cause a range of symptoms, from numbness and tingling to severe pain and muscle weakness. At Herb + Ōhm Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine clinic in Chicago, we have experience providing symptom improvement to many patients in the Chicago area suffering with peripheral neuropathy.
What is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy can affect a single nerve (mononeuropathy), multiple nerves in distinct areas (multiple mononeuropathy), or many nerves throughout the body (polyneuropathy). The condition can result from various causes, including:
Diabetes: One of the most common causes, diabetic neuropathy, affects a significant portion of individuals with diabetes.
Infections: Such as Lyme disease, shingles, or HIV/AIDS.
Autoimmune Diseases: Including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin Deficiencies: Particularly deficiencies in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and E.
Alcoholism: Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to nutritional deficiencies and nerve damage.
Medications: Certain chemotherapy drugs and other medications can cause neuropathy.
Injuries: Physical trauma from accidents or repetitive stress can damage peripheral nerves.
Segments of the Population Most Impacted Peripheral neuropathy can affect anyone, but certain groups are more susceptible:
Diabetics: Nearly 50% of people with diabetes develop some form of neuropathy.
Older Adults: Age-related wear and tear on the nerves makes older individuals more prone to neuropathy.
Cancer Patients: Those undergoing chemotherapy are at a higher risk due to the neurotoxic effects of certain treatments.
Individuals with Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis often involve nerve damage.
Alcoholics: Long-term alcohol abuse can lead to nutritional deficiencies and direct nerve damage.
How can acupuncture help
Here at At Herb + Ohm Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine clinic in Chicago, we see many patients with peripheral neuropathy. Acupuncture can help those suffering from peripheral neuropathy in the following ways:
Pain Relief: Acupuncture is known for its ability to reduce pain by stimulating the nervous system to release endorphins and other natural painrelieving chemicals. This can help alleviate the discomfort associated with neuropathy.
Improving Nerve Function: By enhancing blood flow and reducing inflammation, acupuncture can promote healing in damaged nerves and improve their function.
Reducing Symptoms: Acupuncture has been shown to alleviate common symptoms of neuropathy, such as tingling, numbness, and muscle weakness, improving the quality of life for sufferers.
Complementary Treatment: Acupuncture can be used alongside conventional treatments like medications and physical therapy, providing a holistic approach to managing peripheral neuropathy.
Peripheral neuropathy is a complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly those with diabetes, older adults, cancer patients, and individuals with autoimmune diseases or a history of alcoholism. While conventional treatments are available, acupuncture offers a promising complementary therapy. By providing pain relief, improving nerve function, and reducing symptoms, acupuncture can enhance the overall quality of life for those suffering from peripheral neuropathy.
If you or someone you know is struggling with this condition in the Chicago area, contact Herb + Ōhm today to discuss our acupuncture treatment options for peripheral neuropathy.