Acupuncture for Peripheral Neuropathy: Restoring Nerve Health Naturally
- Stella de Stefanis
- Oct 13
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 15
Find relief from numbness, tingling, and nerve pain with acupuncture in Santa Monica. Licensed Acupuncturist, Stella de Stefanis, is trained in the Acupuncture Now Foundation’s Protocol for Peripheral Neuropathy to support nerve repair and circulation naturally.
Peripheral neuropathy can cause a range of uncomfortable and often distressing sensations - numbness, tingling, burning, weakness, or pain in the hands and feet. For many, it can affect balance, mobility, and overall quality of life.
While conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management, acupuncture offers a natural, evidence-informed approach that aims to stimulate nerve repair, reduce inflammation, and restore healthy circulation.
At Acupunctury in Santa Monica, our founder and Licensed Acupuncturist, Stella de Stefanis, is trained in the Acupuncture Now Foundation Protocol for Peripheral Neuropathy, a specialized evidence-based approach developed through clinical research to help improve nerve function and reduce pain.
Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy (Biomedical Perspective)
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves outside the brain and spinal cord - the peripheral nervous system - become damaged or dysfunctional. The condition can affect sensory, motor, or autonomic nerves, leading to symptoms that range from mild tingling to severe pain or loss of coordination.
Common biomedical causes include:
Diabetes (Diabetic Neuropathy):
High blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels that nourish nerves, leading to progressive nerve degeneration, especially in the feet and legs.
Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy:
Certain cancer treatments can damage sensory nerves, resulting in numbness or burning sensations.
Vitamin Deficiencies:
Deficiencies in vitamins B1, B6, B12, and E can impair nerve health and regeneration.
Alcohol-Related Neuropathy:
Chronic alcohol use depletes essential nutrients and directly damages nerve tissue.
Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions:
Disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Guillain-Barré syndrome can cause nerve inflammation.
Injury or Surgery:
Nerves can be compressed, stretched, or cut during trauma or surgery, leading to localized neuropathic pain.
Idiopathic Neuropathy:
In many cases, the cause is unknown, but acupuncture can still play a valuable role in reducing symptoms and improving function.
How Acupuncture Supports Nerve Health (Biomedical Explanation)
Modern research shows acupuncture affects the body in several key ways that can help those with peripheral neuropathy:
Improves microcirculation: Increases blood flow to affected nerves, enhancing oxygen and nutrient delivery to support repair.
Regulates nerve signaling: Stimulates sensory nerve fibers and modulates abnormal pain signals at the spinal cord and brain level.
Reduces inflammation: Balances the immune response and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines associated with nerve pain.
Encourages neuroplasticity: Helps the nervous system adapt and form new neural pathways to restore normal sensation.
Promotes endorphin release: Natural pain-relieving and mood-enhancing chemicals reduce discomfort and stress associated with chronic pain.
Studies published in journals such as Pain Medicine and The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine have found that acupuncture can significantly improve nerve conduction velocity, sensory thresholds, and quality of life in individuals with neuropathy.
A TCM Perspective on Peripheral Neuropathy
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), peripheral neuropathy is viewed as a result of Qi and Blood stagnation, deficiency, or obstruction in the meridians that nourish the limbs.
Common TCM patterns include:
Qi and Blood Deficiency:
Presents with numbness, weakness, or fatigue in the limbs. Often seen in individuals recovering from illness or with chronic digestive weakness.
Treatment principle: Tonify Qi and Blood to nourish and revitalize the channels.
Dampness Accumulation or Phlegm Obstruction:
Characterized by heaviness, tingling, or swelling in the limbs. Often worsens with humidity or after eating rich foods.
Treatment principle: Transform dampness and strengthen digestion to promote fluid metabolism.
Blood Stasis:
Sharp, stabbing pain or localized numbness. Common after injury or chronic illness.
Treatment principle: Move Blood and Qi to clear stagnation and open the channels.
Liver and Kidney Deficiency:
Often related to aging, long-term stress, or chronic illness. Causes weakness, atrophy, or numbness of the hands and feet.
Treatment principle: Nourish the Liver and Kidney to support sinews, bones, and nerves.
Each treatment plan at Acupunctury is customized to your unique constitution, addressing both the underlying imbalance and the physical manifestations of neuropathy.
The Acupuncture Now Foundation Protocol for Peripheral Neuropathy
The Acupuncture Now Foundation (ANF) has developed a specialized evidence-based protocol for treating peripheral neuropathy, focusing on targeted point selection and stimulation techniques proven to enhance nerve recovery and sensory function.
Stella is trained in this advanced protocol, which integrates both scientifically validated point locations and traditional meridian theory. This approach supports nerve regeneration, improves microcirculation, and reduces pain - offering relief even for long-standing neuropathic conditions.
Patients often report improvements in:
Numbness and tingling
Burning or shooting pain
Sensitivity to touch
Sleep and mood
Overall sense of balance and wellbeing
Lifestyle and Nutrition Tips for Nerve Support
Alongside acupuncture, daily lifestyle habits and nutritional support can significantly enhance nerve healing:
Lifestyle Guidance
Gentle movement: Regular low-impact exercise (walking, tai chi, swimming) increases circulation and prevents stiffness.
Foot care: For diabetic neuropathy, keep feet clean, moisturized, and inspected regularly to prevent unnoticed injuries.
Sleep & stress management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing, or restorative yoga to calm the nervous system.
Avoid smoking and excess alcohol: Both impair circulation and deplete nutrients vital for nerve health.
Nutritional Support
Vitamin-rich diet: Include foods high in B vitamins (whole grains, eggs, leafy greens), omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseed), and antioxidants (berries, turmeric).
Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake supports cellular repair and circulation.
Anti-inflammatory foods: Focus on colorful vegetables, ginger, turmeric, and green tea.
Limit processed sugar: Helps prevent further nerve damage, especially for diabetic neuropathy.
What to Expect from Acupuncture Treatment
During treatment, ultra-fine needles are placed at precise points along the arms, legs, and sometimes scalp or ears to stimulate nerve regeneration and energy flow. Most patients find sessions deeply relaxing.
A typical course of care may include weekly treatments for 6–12 weeks, depending on the severity and underlying cause of neuropathy. Many patients begin to notice improved sensation, reduced pain, and a greater sense of ease after just a few sessions. Because nerve regeneration is a gradual process, maintenance treatments may be recommended once initial improvements stabilize. These periodic sessions help reinforce circulation, keep inflammation low, and support ongoing nerve repair - helping maintain long-term comfort and function.
A Holistic Path Toward Healing
Peripheral neuropathy can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free approach that works with your body’s innate capacity to heal. By combining acupuncture, lifestyle support, and mindful nutrition, it’s possible to restore nerve function and reclaim comfort in your body.
If you’re seeking a compassionate, evidence-based approach to nerve health -
📞 Call/Text: (424) 252-1210
📧 Email: hello@acupuncturyla.com
🌐 Website: www.acupuncturyla.com
🌐 Direct Booking Link: Acupunctury via JaneApp
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📍 Address: 1150 Yale St, Suite 10, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Each individual is unique, and acupuncture treatments are always tailored to the person’s specific needs. If you are experiencing a health concern, please consult a licensed healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of care.
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