Acupuncture for Diabetic Neuropathy in Feet: Effective Relief

Written By Jeff Savage

Peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, affects millions worldwide, causing symptoms ranging from tingling and numbness to severe pain and mobility issues. For those suffering from diabetic neuropathy, particularly in the feet, acupuncture offers a promising treatment option. Acupuncture for diabetic neuropathy in feet has gained recognition as a non-invasive method to help alleviate the discomfort associated with this condition. In the U.S., the prevalence of peripheral neuropathy is about 15% in individuals older than 40 years.1

senior gentleman relief diabetic peripheral neuropathy soccer

While conventional treatments focus largely on symptom management through medications, there is growing interest in alternative approaches that address the underlying mechanisms of neuropathic pain. Acupuncture is a highly effective, non-invasive treatment for peripheral neuropathy. This time-tested practice involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

This article explores acupuncture's role in managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN poses significant challenges due to its progressive nature and impact on quality of life. We examine its proven benefits supported by clinical evidence, detail our clinic's approach to integrating acupuncture into comprehensive treatment plans, and provide practical insights for individuals considering this therapeutic option to improve their quality of life.

Understanding Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes, impacting a significant number of individuals worldwide. In the US, it is the most common form of peripheral neuropathy, affecting approximately 30% of patients with diabetes.1 It manifests with symptoms that can greatly affect daily life and overall well-being.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

  • DPN often starts with tingling or numbness in the extremities, such as the feet and hands.
  • Symptoms may progress over time to include sharp, burning pain and increased sensitivity to touch.
  • Loss of balance, coordination difficulties, and muscle weakness are also frequent symptoms.

How is Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Different?

  • DPN is directly linked to diabetes and its impact on nerve function, unlike general peripheral neuropathy.
  • Its progression is closely related to blood sugar levels and diabetic management.
  • Without proper treatment, individuals with diabetes face a higher risk of severe nerve damage.

Prevalence Estimates:

  • DPN affects at least 20% of individuals with type 1 diabetes after 20 years of disease duration.
  • Among newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes, DPN affects 10%–15%.
  • The prevalence rises significantly to 50% after 10 years of disease duration in type 2 diabetes cases.2

Conventional Treatment Options

Managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) typically involves a combination of conventional treatments aimed at alleviating symptoms and slowing progression. These treatments are essential in helping patients maintain quality of life and manage the impact of neuropathy on daily activities.

Medications: Managing Symptoms with Caution

Medications play a crucial role in symptom management for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), but they come with potential side effects that require careful consideration:

  • Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to manage mild to moderate pain. However, long-term use can lead to gastrointestinal issues and renal problems.
  • Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help alleviate neuropathic pain. These medications may cause dizziness, dry mouth, and weight gain.
  • Anticonvulsants: Medications typically used to treat epilepsy, such as gabapentin and pregabalin, are also effective in managing nerve pain associated with DPN. They may result in drowsiness, dizziness, and weight gain.

Therapies

Various therapeutic approaches are employed to complement medication and improve symptom management:

  • Physical Therapy: Exercises and physical techniques can help improve muscle strength, balance, and coordination, which are often compromised in individuals with DPN.
  • Topical Treatments: Creams and ointments containing capsaicin or lidocaine can provide localized pain relief.

Lifestyle Modifications

Making lifestyle changes can significantly impact the progression and severity of DPN:

  • Blood Sugar Management: Tight control of blood glucose levels through diet, exercise, and medications is crucial in preventing nerve damage and slowing the progression of DPN.
  • Foot Care: Proper foot care, including daily inspection for cuts and sores, wearing comfortable shoes, and avoiding walking barefoot, helps prevent complications such as ulcers and infections.
  • Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of vascular complications that can exacerbate DPN symptoms.

Limitations

While these treatments are effective in managing symptoms, they often come with limitations such as potential side effects from medications, the need for ongoing monitoring, and varying levels of efficacy among individuals. Additionally, conventional treatments primarily focus on symptom management rather than addressing the underlying cause of DPN.

In the next section, we'll explore acupuncture as an alternative and complementary approach to managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Acupuncture offers unique benefits that may enhance overall treatment outcomes and improve quality of life for individuals with DPN.

Treatment with Acupuncture: Evidence and Benefits

Acupuncture is a proven treatment for diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), backed by clinical research showing significant benefits.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for DPN

Clinical studies specific to diabetic peripheral neuropathy have consistently demonstrated the efficacy of acupuncture in alleviating symptoms and improving nerve function:

  • Research published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine highlighted that acupuncture significantly reduces neuropathic pain levels in DPN patients by regulating neurohormones and modulating pain pathways.3
  • Another study from the World Journal of Diabetes reported substantial pain relief and enhanced quality of life among diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients treated with acupuncture. The study emphasized acupuncture's role in reducing sensory symptoms such as numbness and tingling, thereby improving overall neuropathic symptoms.4

Benefits of Acupuncture for DPN

Acupuncture offers multifaceted benefits tailored to address the complexities of diabetic peripheral neuropathy:

  • Pain Management: Through its action on neurotransmitters and endorphins, acupuncture mitigates neuropathic pain in DPN patients, enhancing patient comfort and reducing reliance on pain medications.
  • Nerve Function Enhancement: Studies suggest that acupuncture promotes nerve repair and regeneration specifically in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, crucial for restoring impaired nerve conduction and sensory function.5
  • Comprehensive Improvement: Beyond symptom relief, acupuncture enhances overall well-being by improving sleep patterns, mood stability, and physical functioning in individuals with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, thereby boosting quality of life.

Our Unique Approach at Nyberg Acupuncture and Wellness

At Nyberg Acupuncture & Wellness, we focus on you, combining acupuncture with advanced therapies to achieve the best results for treating peripheral neuropathy.

  • Integrated Therapies: Our treatment protocols combine acupuncture with ATP Resonance BioTherapy® to promote nerve repair and functional improvement.
  • Personalized Care Plans: Each patient undergoes a comprehensive assessment to tailor treatment to their specific symptoms and health status.
  • Adaptive Treatment Strategies: We continuously monitor progress and adjust therapies as needed, ensuring optimal response to treatment and sustained improvement.

By integrating acupuncture with ATP Resonance BioTherapy®, we offer a comprehensive and effective approach to managing diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This combined therapy not only addresses symptoms but also facilitates nerve regeneration and enhances overall quality of life.

Taking the Next Step

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) can significantly impact daily life, but effective relief is within reach. At Nyberg Acupuncture & Wellness, we specialize in providing personalized acupuncture treatments tailored to alleviate neuropathic symptoms and enhance overall well-being.

If you're experiencing the challenges of DPN, don't hesitate to seek help. If you're in the Tualatin, Tigard and Greater Portland Oregon Area, contact us today at +1 (503) 336-4747 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Savage and take the first step towards a more comfortable and fulfilling life.

Thank you for considering Nyberg Acupuncture & Wellness as your partner in managing peripheral neuropathy.

References

  1. Callaghan BC, Price RS, Feldman EL. Distal Symmetric Polyneuropathy in 2020. JAMA. 2020;324(1):90–91. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.0700

  2. Pop-Busui R, Boulton AJM, Feldman EL, et al. Diabetic Neuropathy: A Position Statement by the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes Care. 2017;40(1):136–154. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc16-2042

  3. Dietzel J, Habermann IV, Hörder S, et al. Acupuncture in Patients with Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy-Related Complaints: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. J Clin Med. 2023;12(6):2103. doi:10.3390/jcm12062103

  4. Hoerder S, Habermann IV, Hahn K, et al. Acupuncture in diabetic peripheral neuropathy-neurological outcomes of the randomized acupuncture in diabetic peripheral neuropathy trial. World J Diabetes. 2023;14(12):1813-1823. doi:10.4239/wjd.v14.i12.1813

  5. Yang Y, Rao C, Yin T, et al. Application and underlying mechanism of acupuncture for the nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury: remodeling of nerve system. Front Cell Neurosci. 2023;17:1253438. doi:10.3389/fncel.2023.1253438

Jeff Savage
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