Neuropathy can cause discomfort, numbness, and pain that make daily activities difficult. If you are struggling with burning, tingling, or weakness in your hands or feet, you’re not alone. Millions of adults experience nerve-related pain, but relief is possible. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we offer acupuncture as a natural, drug-free approach to managing neuropathy. This time-tested treatment can help restore nerve function, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being. Below,
What Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a healing practice from ancient China that has been used for thousands of years to reduce pain and improve overall health. It works by gently inserting super-thin, sterile needles into the body at specific points. These points are linked to energy pathways called meridians, which help the body heal itself and stay balanced. Research has shown that acupuncture can:
- Improve blood circulation
- Reduce inflammation
- Stimulate the nervous system
- Release endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers)
By triggering these responses, acupuncture promotes healing and reduces pain caused by conditions like neuropathy.
Understanding Neuropathy
Neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or malfunctioning, leading to pain, weakness, and numbness. While it can affect any part of the body, it is most commonly found in the hands, feet, arms, and legs.
Causes of Neuropathy
Several factors can contribute to nerve damage, including:
- Diabetes – This is one of the most common causes. Diabetic neuropathy develops due to high blood sugar, damaging nerves over time.
- Infections – Conditions like shingles, Lyme disease, and HIV can attack the nervous system.
- Injuries – Injuries from car accidents or repetitive movements can put pressure on nerves and cause damage.
- Autoimmune Disorders – Conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can cause the immune system to attack the nerves.
- Toxins & Medications – Chemotherapy drugs, excessive alcohol use, and exposure to heavy metals can contribute to nerve damage.
- Vitamin Deficiencies – Not having enough essential vitamins like B12 can weaken nerves and lead to symptoms of neuropathy.
Regardless of the cause, neuropathy can have a serious impact on daily life, making walking, gripping objects, or even feeling temperature changes difficult.
How Acupuncture Helps Relieve Neuropathy
Acupuncture has been shown to improve nerve function and relieve neuropathy symptoms in a way that traditional medications often cannot. Painkillers might help for a little while, but acupuncture targets the root cause of nerve pain by encouraging the body to heal itself. There are several benefits that come with acupuncture. This treatment:
- Improves Blood Flow – Poor circulation is a major factor in neuropathy. Acupuncture increases blood flow to the affected areas, delivering oxygen and nutrients to repair damaged nerves.
- Reduces Inflammation – Many cases of neuropathy involve swelling around nerves, which leads to pain and dysfunction. Acupuncture helps reduce this inflammation, allowing nerves to heal.
- Stimulates Nerve Regeneration – Research suggests that acupuncture can encourage nerve regeneration, helping restore normal function in damaged nerves.
- Relieves Pain Naturally – By triggering the release of endorphins and blocking pain signals, acupuncture provides relief without the side effects of medications.
- Enhances Mobility – Many patients experience improved range of motion, muscle strength, and balance after acupuncture treatment.
What to Expect During Acupuncture Treatment
At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we personalize acupuncture treatments based on your symptoms and medical history. During your first visit, we’ll discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and assess areas of pain or numbness. A physical evaluation helps us determine the best acupuncture points for treatment.
Once we have a plan, we’ll begin by placing ultra-thin needles in targeted areas, such as your hands, feet, legs, or back. This gentle approach helps stimulate healing and provides relief tailored to your needs.
Does Acupuncture Hurt?
Most people feel little to no pain during acupuncture. The needles are incredibly thin. In fact, they are much smaller than the ones used for blood draws or injections. Some describe a slight tingling, warmth, or heaviness in the area, which means the treatment is doing its job.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Some people feel better after one or two sessions, but most need multiple treatments for lasting relief. A typical plan may involve:
- One or two sessions per week for the first few weeks
- Gradual reduction in frequency as symptoms improve
- Ongoing maintenance treatments if needed
Each patient’s response to acupuncture is unique, and we’ll adjust your plan based on your progress.
Combining Acupuncture With Other Therapies
For the best results, acupuncture can be used alongside other treatments, such as:
- Physical therapy – Builds muscle strength and improves movement.
- Dietary changes – Managing blood sugar levels and ensuring proper nutrition can help support nerve health.
- Herbal medicine – Some herbal remedies have been shown to reduce nerve pain and inflammation.
- Lifestyle modifications – Gentle exercise, proper footwear, and stress management techniques can improve symptoms.
At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we take an integrative approach to care, combining acupuncture with other therapies to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.
Why Choose Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine?
When choosing acupuncture for neuropathy, it’s important to work with specialists who understand both traditional and modern medicine. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, our experienced team focuses on safe, effective treatment tailored to your needs.
We provide personalized care because no two cases of neuropathy are the same. Our expert practitioners use only sterile, disposable needles in a safe, clean environment. We also take a comprehensive approach, combining acupuncture with other rehabilitative therapies for the best possible results. With our experience and dedication to your care, we help you achieve lasting relief and better overall health.
Find Relief From Neuropathy Pain Today
If neuropathy is affecting your quality of life, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Long Island Spine Rehabilitation Medicine, we are committed to helping patients across Long Island find relief through safe, effective, and natural treatments.
Our experienced team is ready to help you regain comfort, mobility, and peace of mind. Take the first step toward better nerve health. Contact our team to get started with an appointment and learn more about how acupuncture can help you overcome neuropathy pain.