Can Acupuncture Help with Nerve Damage?

Nerve damage, or neuropathy, affects millions of people worldwide, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. Traditional treatments include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. However, an increasing number of individuals are exploring alternative therapies, such as Acupuncture, to alleviate their symptoms and enhance their quality of life.

Here, we will find the answers to whether can acupuncture help with nerve damage, the safety of this treatment, its benefits, and potential risks, along with other alternative treatments for neuropathy. Let’s get started.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been originated from traditional Chinese medicine in which thousands of tiny and thin needles are inserted into specific points on the body called acupuncture points. These points are connected to various pathways and meridians that helps balance the flow of energy or qi (pronounced as ‘chee’) within your body. This renewed energy balance enhances the body’s healing abilities. 

Is Acupuncture for Nerve Damage Safe?

Many people go for acupuncture neuropathy because they don’t want to experience any pain while treating their discomfort. Several reputed bodies like WHO, the Oregon Health and Science University and the Mayo Clinic recognize Acupuncture for nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy as a safe and useful therapy. Always visit a certified acupuncturist if you want to get proven and long-lasting results.

How Can Acupuncture Help Patients with Nerve Damage?

Acupuncture can be particularly beneficial for patients with nerve damage, addressing various symptoms and promoting overall well-being. Here are some specific problems Acupuncture can help with –

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation forms a key component of nerve damage and could be the major reason to exacerbate pain and discomfort. The nerve damage recovery can be done with the help of Acupuncture as it reduces inflammation. How? The treatment of Acupuncture releases cytokines and decreases the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It works towards nerve healing and hence reduces discomfort.

Reduces the sensation of numbness and tingling

The most common symptoms of nerve damage are numbness and tingling which often happens due to reduced blood flow and impaired nerve function. Acupuncture helps increase the blood flow to the affected areas, restore the functions of the damaged nerves and thereby reduce sensations of numbness and tingling.

Treats oversensitivity to touch

Sometimes, patients with nerve damage are hypersensitive to touch, which can hamper their daily activities. Treatment in the form of Acupuncture can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters and endorphins to alleviate discomfort and oversensitivity to touch.

Manages chronic pain

Chronic pain is the symptom of nerve damage that can wreak havoc in your life. With acupuncture treatment, natural painkillers are produced by the body in the form of endorphins. Moreover, Acupuncture influences the brain’s pain perception pathways, which reduces the frequency of pain episodes.

Treats Muscle weakness

Acupuncture neuropathy stimulates nerves and improves communication between the nervous system and muscles. You tend to improve your overall physical performance through this stimulation.

What are the benefits of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Nerve Damage?

Several benefits of Acupuncture in the treatment of nerve damage are –

Motivation to improve health habits

If you regularly go for Acupuncture for pinched nerve or nerve damage, it will inspire you to adopt healthier lifestyles in the long run. You will start paying more attention to your food habits, sleeping patterns, and stress management. Hence, Acupuncture acts as a motivation to improve health habits.

Boost your mood

Living with nerve damage can negatively affect your mood and can take a toll on your mental health. This can be recovered through Acupuncture, as one of the benefits of acupuncture is that it helps regulate the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which contribute towards relaxation and boosting your mood.

Holistic healing approach

Acupuncture is the holistic approach towards healing that takes into account the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit. It dives deep into the root causes of the nerve damage and promotes overall health. Patients often feel that their general health improves in addition to the treatment of specific symptoms of nerve damage.

What are the Risks of Acupuncture in the Treatment of Nerve Damage?

While Acupuncture is generally safe, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks, especially when treating sensitive conditions like nerve damage. These risks include –

Pain and bruising

Often, there could be minor pain or discomfort at the sites where needles are inserted. Although needles are designed in a manner to minimize the levels of discomfort. But some patients still feel pain, more so when they have underlying health conditions. It can also occur in areas with thin skin or poor circulation. However, bruising is usually minor and can resolve on its own within a few days.

Injury

If the acupuncturist doesn’t pay attention to the treatment, he/she may push the needles too deeply into the skin, which might injure an organ, lung, or blood vessels. While skilled and experienced acupuncturists are trained to perform the treatment as carefully as possible, but still there is always a slight risk associated with it. Injuries could be minor, like slight nerve irritation, or more serious issues, like pneumothorax if the needles are inserted incorrectly in the chest area.

Infection

It is must to use sterile acupuncture needles. Using unsterilized needles can expose the patients to life-threatening diseases. Also, acupuncturists must follow proper hygiene protocols to minimize the risk. Some symptom associated with infection are – pain, swelling, redness and pus at the insertion site. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur to you.

Bleeding disorders

Some people are medically diagnosed with bleeding disorders. This can make it somewhat challenging for them to heal. Before consulting an acupuncturist, let him know that you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners so that they can take appropriate precautions.

Heart issues

Some acupuncture treatments techniques are applying heat or electrical pulses to needle sites on your body to stimulate nerve responses. This can lead to dizziness or fainting during or after the treatment. It could lead to low blood sugar levels, anxiety, or a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. To avoid this, patients are advised to eat a light meal before the treatment and stay well hydrated. Also, inform your acupuncturist about this if you have any history of heart issues.

Allergic reactions

This is extremely rare but can happen. Some patients may have allergic reactions to the needles used on the skin or any topical substances applied to the skin. Let your acupuncturist know that you have certain allergies to avoid any potential allergens.

What are the alternative Treatments for Neuropathy?

In addition to Acupuncture, several other alternative treatments can help manage the symptoms of neuropathy. These include –

Regular exercise

What is the most natural treatment for neuropathy? The answer is regular exercise. It increases blood circulation to restore nerve damage and maintains muscle strength and flexibility.

Healthy diet

A healthy diet is an alternative treatment for neuropathy as well as many diseases and can help maintain nerve health. Vitamins significant for nerve health are – Vitamin B, especially B1, B6, and B12. The anti-oxidants in food items like dark leafy green vegetables, berries, and nuts play a crucial role in protecting the nerves from damage. Eat food items rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and Magnesium to have good overall health.

Good foot care

If someone has diabetic neuropathy, they should take proper care of their feet to avoid further complications like ulcers and amputations. They should regularly inspect their feet for blisters, cuts, and sores. Always wear properly fitted shoes to maintain foot health. Schedule regular checkups with a chiropodist to manage your foot health effectively.

Herbal remedies

Some herbs are effective for nerve damage recovery like capsaicin, Gingko Biloba etc. So, you can use them as peripheral neuropathy alternative treatment.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy is an alternative treatment for neuropathy that can prove to be highly effective in managing the pain. An expert physical therapist designs a customized therapy plan for you to improve your condition and balance.

Final Thoughts

Acupuncture presents a promising alternative treatment for nerve damage, offering potential relief from pain, numbness, and other debilitating symptoms. While generally safe, it is essential to seek treatment from a qualified professional and discuss your condition with your healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for you. In addition to Acupuncture, various other alternative treatments for neuropathy, enhance your overall health and well-being. As with any medical treatment, a personalized plan that considers your unique needs and circumstances is the best approach to achieving optimal results.

That being said, RMT Movement is here to design a personalized therapy plan for you to help you move better and feel better. Our team of experts is open 7 days a week and we have the best industry experts who believe in getting to the root of the problem and providing you with long-term solutions. Contact us for more information.