Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the nervous system that manifests as a burning, tingling, numbing and painful sensation to the feet or hands. The disorder is caused by neural damage due to factors such as an effect due to another medical problem, infections, toxin contamination, medications, diabetes or trauma among others. Peripheral neuropathy patients suffer from chronic pain, which considerably impacts their daily life. Acupuncture Orlando and other modalities of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can provide alleviation for the symptoms of this disorder.
Peripheral neuropathy is more of a symptom of some other underlying disease than a disease itself. Physicians utilize diagnostic technology such as nerve biopsy or electromyography to detect and diagnose peripheral neuropathy. They may avail also the use of MRI, CT scan or x-ray to detect for malformations, tumors, slipped discs or pinched nerves that cause the neuropathy.
Patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy usually experience the following sensations:
• Stabbing pain
• Burning
• Numbness
• Tenderness to touch
• Tingling
• Electrical sensation
The treatment approaches of Western medicine for peripheral neuropathy are avoidance of posture or body positions that hinder circulation (example is the prevention of sitting with crossed legs); massage, which brings short-term relief from the symptoms; smoking cessation; regular exercise; TENS and prescription drugs.
The TCM way of addressing peripheral neuropathy is to observe the pattern of disharmony that engenders the condition. Some patterns that may cause peripheral neuropathy are:
• Spleen chi weakness coupled with damp – This happens over time affecting the digestive chi.
• Damp-heat – Caused by poor nutritional choices and inordinate eating.
• Yin Deficiency – Can be caused by aging or reaction of the body to invasive and harmful medical procedures such as radiation or chemotherapy.
• Liver chi stagnation – Can be the result of too much stress.
• Blood stasis – a condition that can be caused by chronic diseases.
One or a combination of these can result in peripheral neuropathy. Acupuncture addresses the uncomfortable and painful sensations mentioned before.
There are numerous acupoints that can be used for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy as well as herbs that can quicken the treatment. The acupuncturist also will advise on doing some spiritual meditation to deal with the emotional issues caused by this disorder. Nutritional changes are also espoused by the acupuncturist with the goal of strengthening the body and preventing the recurrence of recurring health problems. Spiritual meditation such as n yoga or tai chi assists the emotionally sensitive person to deal with peripheral neuropathy.
With the hazy condition of how peripheral neuropathy starts, acupuncturists may work in this condition for a couple of weeks to even 3 months. Since peripheral neuropathy can be a deep rooted, complicated condition, it can take a few treatments before the symptoms begin to improve, and may take months before a very noticeable effect takes place.
COMMENTS