acupuncture for peripheral neuropathy

[renwrite]

Hi, I am asking this question for my 71-year-old dad. He has been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in the feet. He doesn't have diabetes though. We have been doing internet searches on all of the drugs doctors recommend but all of them have bad side effects, so he was wondering about acupuncture or any other alternative/holistic/homeopathic remedies for the numbness in his feet. Has anyone out there had experience with acupuncture for pain management? Thanks!

[Mike In NY]

Many years ago I went to an Acupuncturist for a condition different from your father's. I met a woman in the waiting room who used this procedure with success for circulation. I would recommend you use a Medical Doctor trained in this procedure otherwise you may not be reimbursed or a Acupuncturist that's supervised by a Medical Doctor. A late friend who had Neuropathy in the feet used a product with success called Benfotiamine. I know that she ordered it from a local health store. You may also want to consult with a Nutritionist. It's possible that diet and supplements/herbs could help. I do remember reading a success story from someone who switched to a Gluten Free Diet. Visit you local book store and see if there's any books on an all natural approach to Neuropathy.

[Bearygood]

I am currently being treated with acupuncture for MS, for which my varying symptoms include neuropathy of the feet (tingling). About 2 weeks ago he did a treatment that dealt specifically with conductivity between nerves and the brain and I felt a BIG difference the next day. We've also talked extensively about circulation and that's been part of my treatment (he's referred to "stagnation" a lot).

The truth is, symptoms can come and go with MS so it's hard to say if the improvement I'm feeling in general is definitely attributable to this but based on a previous experience, I am a believer. IF there is no imminent danger in your father delaying conventional treatment I'd recommend at least trying it. You do have to be diligent though and give it probably around at least a month. I would think they'll probably start off with 2 treatments a week (it's not cheap but sometimes they'll work out a deal.) You do need to do your homework though to find a great one. I think the world of the one I have now but had checked out others before in whom I didn't have faith or confidence. Lastly, it's an added benefit if the acupuncturist is also an herbalist -- try to find one who is.

Good luck and let us know how you make out!

[renwrite]

Thanks very much for the advice. I am trying to get as much info as I can off the web. I will look into all of the suggestions given. Thanks and be well!

[woondog]

Originally Posted by Bearygood

I am currently being treated with acupuncture for MS, for which my varying symptoms include neuropathy of the feet (tingling). About 2 weeks ago he did a treatment that dealt specifically with conductivity between nerves and the brain and I felt a BIG difference the next day. We've also talked extensively about circulation and that's been part of my treatment (he's referred to "stagnation" a lot).

The truth is, symptoms can come and go with MS so it's hard to say if the improvement I'm feeling in general is definitely attributable to this but based on a previous experience, I am a believer. IF there is no imminent danger in your father delaying conventional treatment I'd recommend at least trying it. You do have to be diligent though and give it probably around at least a month. I would think they'll probably start off with 2 treatments a week (it's not cheap but sometimes they'll work out a deal.) You do need to do your homework though to find a great one. I think the world of the one I have now but had checked out others before in whom I didn't have faith or confidence. Lastly, it's an added benefit if the acupuncturist is also an herbalist -- try to find one who is.

Good luck and let us know how you make out!