Peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve pain, occurs after injury or damage to nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. Common examples include:
- Trigeminal neuralgia (searing pain across the jaw, usually on one side)
- Postherpetic neuralgia (burning pain following shingles infection)
- Post-traumatic neuropathy (chronic pain following surgery, whiplash, or other body injury)
- Diabetic neuropathy (progressive loss of sensation in the toes and feet)
- Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (chronic pain following cancer treatment)
Research provides substantial evidence that acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for each of these types of peripheral neuropathy!
Acupuncture safely manipulates opioids, cannabinoids, acetylcholine, serotonin/noradrenaline, and the activity of glial cells and cytokines. All of these substances in the body play a role in our experience of pain.
Treatment with acupuncture is not a one-and-done, however. Studies show a treatment plan should include a minimum of 2 acupuncture sessions per week for 4-12 weeks to be effective.
Betsy Gordon Acupuncture, Portland OR, treats a wide range of conditions. With a high standard of evidence-based care, she focuses each treatment on bringing relief. If you or someone you know is seeking treatment for peripheral neuropathy, give us a call at (971) 341-9546, or schedule online.
