Acupuncture Can Help with Neuropathy

Have you been struggling to find a cure for neuropathy?  Acupuncture could be your answer.  Let’s explore how acupuncture can naturally treat neuropathy by improving circulation and reducing nerve pain. We’ll go over some common causes of neuropathy, what TCM insights say about it, and what are some holistic remedies that support long-term healing.

Neuropathy refers to nerve damage that leads to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness—often in the hands or feet. It can interfere with daily life, sleep, and mobility, and many people struggle to find lasting relief.

While Western medicine often treats neuropathy with medications that manage symptoms, acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) aim to restore balance, circulation, and nerve function—naturally and holistically.

At Pacific Beach Acupuncture, we’ve helped many patients find relief from neuropathy and reclaim their quality of life—without relying solely on medication.

Western medicine identifies neuropathy as a result of damage to the peripheral nerves. Common causes include:

• Diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)

• Chemotherapy (chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy or CIPN)

• Alcohol abuse

• Vitamin deficiencies (especially B12)

• Infections (e.g., shingles, Lyme disease)

• Autoimmune diseases (like lupus or RA)

• Injuries or repetitive stress

Symptoms may include burning pain, pins and needles, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and coordination issues.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, neuropathy is viewed as a disruption in the flow of Qi and Blood—especially in the Liver, Kidney, and Spleen meridians, which nourish the muscles and nerves.

From a TCM perspective, neuropathy may stem from:

• Qi and Blood deficiency: Nerves aren’t nourished, leading to weakness, numbness, or tingling.

• Dampness and Phlegm: Block circulation and compress the nerves.

• Cold obstructing the channels: Leads to sharp, stabbing pain or numbness.

• Liver and Kidney deficiency: Affects the strength and nourishment of the sinews and nerves.

The goal of treatment is to restore flow, nourish the nerves, and clear blockages—not just dull the pain.

Acupuncture is increasingly recognized—even in integrative medical settings—for its ability to stimulate nerve repair and improve circulation.

Here’s how acupuncture works for neuropathy:

• Promotes blood flow to oxygenate and nourish damaged nerves

• Regulates inflammation and immune response

• Encourages nerve regeneration through microcirculatory stimulation

• Reduces pain signals by calming overactive nerves

• Improves sleep, mood, and overall quality of life

Studies show acupuncture can be especially effective for diabetic neuropathy and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, often reducing symptoms within a few weeks of regular treatments.

Alongside acupuncture, the following natural therapies can enhance your recovery:

1. Herbal Medicine

Customized Chinese herbal formulas can:

• Nourish the Liver and Kidney systems

• Improve circulation and relieve pain

• Clear dampness or cold from the channels

• Support nerve regeneration

2. Nutritional Support

Certain nutrients are essential for nerve health:

• Vitamin B12, B6, and B1

• Alpha-lipoic acid (an antioxidant used for diabetic neuropathy)

• Magnesium for nerve relaxation (magnesium spray can also be used topically to treat nerve pain)

• Turmeric/curcumin to reduce inflammation

We can help assess whether you may benefit from specific supplements or a more anti-inflammatory diet.

3. Movement and Gentle Exercise

Low-impact activities like:

• Tai Chi

• Walking

• Stretching

• Qi Gong

…can stimulate circulation and reduce stiffness without overtaxing the body.

4. Topical Herbal Liniments

Herbal salves or medicated oils (like Dit Da Jow or capsaicin cream) can ease nerve pain and improve local blood flow.

Neuropathy can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms are constant. But healing doesn’t have to rely only on pharmaceuticals. With a holistic, integrative approach, many people experience significant relief—and even nerve recovery.

At Pacific Beach Acupuncture, we combine acupuncture, herbal medicine, lifestyle guidance, and compassionate care to help you feel better—naturally.

Let’s work together to restore circulation, reduce pain, and support your nervous system from the inside out.

Schedule your consultation today and take your first step toward lasting neuropathy relief—without side effects.