Peripheral Neuropathy & Acupuncture
by Antonia Balfour, L.Ac.
What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord – known as the peripheral nervous system – become damaged.
These nerves carry messages between the central nervous system and the rest of the body, so when they’re injured, communication becomes disrupted.
This condition can affect sensory, motor, and autonomic nerves – meaning symptoms may influence how you feel, move, and regulate internal functions.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on which nerves are involved, but may include:
Sensory nerves
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Tingling, burning, or “pins and needles” sensations in the feet or hands
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Numbness or reduced sensitivity to temperature or touch
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Pain that feels sharp, electric, or freezing
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A feeling of wearing gloves or socks when you’re not
Motor nerves
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Muscle weakness or heaviness
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Loss of balance or coordination
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Cramping, spasms, or tremors
Autonomic nerves
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Digestive changes such as constipation
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Bladder issues or sexual dysfunction
Peripheral Neuropathy & Cancer Treatment
Peripheral neuropathy is a common side effect of cancer and its treatments.
It may result from:
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Chemotherapy – Certain drugs, especially at higher doses, can injure peripheral nerves. Symptoms often flare after treatment and improve slightly before the next round.
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Radiation therapy – May gradually damage nerves in the treated area.
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Surgery – Procedures involving the breast, lung, or other organs can sometimes irritate or compress nearby nerves.
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Tumor pressure – In some cases, a tumor itself can press on or grow into nerves.
Up to 10–20% of people with cancer experience neuropathy during or after treatment.
The good news: supportive therapies like acupuncture can significantly improve comfort and nerve health.
How Acupuncture Supports Nerve Healing
Acupuncture has been used for centuries to restore balance and circulation – and modern research continues to confirm its benefits for peripheral neuropathy.
Clinical studies show acupuncture can improve nerve conduction and reduce pain, numbness, and tingling in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, neuropathy often develops when Qi (vital energy) and blood become too weak or blocked to nourish the extremities. This stagnation leads to sensations of cold, numbness, or pain.
An acupuncturist assesses where energy or circulation has become deficient or obstructed and then selects points to:
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Stimulate blood flow and nerve repair
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Reduce inflammation and pain
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Rebalance the nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic)
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Restore harmony between Yin and Yang – the body’s complementary forces
Modern research supports these observations: acupuncture influences nerve signaling, modulates the limbic system (which governs emotion and stress), and helps reset the autonomic nervous system to support healing and calm.
Many patients notice relief – especially from pain – within the first few sessions.
Longer-standing cases may require a series of treatments to rebuild sensation and strength.
Complementary Therapies
Acupuncture works best when combined with other integrative approaches, such as:
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B-complex vitamins and Alpha-Lipoic Acid – Support nerve function and regeneration.
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Gentle movement – Tai Chi, walking, swimming, or yoga help improve circulation and balance.
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Chinese herbal medicine – Custom formulas strengthen Qi and blood while addressing specific symptoms.
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Self-care – Protect hands and feet from temperature extremes, wear socks in cold weather, and check water temperature before bathing.
Before starting any supplements or herbs, always consult your oncologist or integrative provider.
For more lifestyle guidance, explore our Healing Support page.
The Bottom Line
Peripheral neuropathy can range from mildly uncomfortable to life-disrupting – but it doesn’t have to be permanent.
Acupuncture offers a gentle, evidence-informed way to stimulate nerve repair, improve circulation, and restore balance throughout the body.
For many patients, it becomes an essential part of healing after cancer treatment – supporting not just the nerves, but the whole person.