Acupuncture for Chemotherapy-Induced Numbness and Tingling (Peripheral Neuropathy)
- caulocare
- Aug 19
- 3 min read
By Dr. Phumlarp Caulo – Caulo Care Acupuncture, Forest Hills, New York
Introduction
Many cancer survivors experience numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the hands and feet after chemotherapy. This side effect is known as Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN). It can interfere with everyday activities—walking, sleeping, or even holding a pen. While modern medicine focuses on medications and nerve protection,
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), including acupuncture for chemotherapy neuropathy, herbal remedies, and holistic care, provides a complementary path to recovery.
At Caulo Care Community Acupuncture in Forest Hills, Queens, we specialize in acupuncture for cancer patients to relieve chemotherapy side effects, improve circulation, and restore quality of life.
Causes – Western Medicine Perspective
Chemotherapy drugs such as platinum agents, taxanes, and vinca alkaloids can injure the nerves, leading to persistent pain and discomfort.
Nerve injury: Direct toxic damage to axons and myelin.
Oxidative stress: Increased free radicals harm nerve cells.
Inflammation: Immune activation that worsens nerve pain.
Posture and circulation factors: Sitting for long hours, poor ergonomics, or sleeping positions that compress nerves.
Anatomy & Physiology (A&P): Peripheral nerves transmit sensory and motor signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the body. When chemotherapy damages these pathways, signals are distorted—causing tingling (paresthesia), burning pain (dysesthesia), or numbness.
Causes – Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective
In TCM, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy is viewed as a disturbance in Qi and Blood circulation.
Qi and Blood Deficiency: Weakness of the Spleen and Kidney fails to nourish the limbs.
Dampness and Cold: Fluids and cold stagnation block circulation, leading to numbness and heaviness.
Liver Qi Stagnation: Stress and toxins obstruct smooth Qi flow.
Chemotherapy depletes vital energy and creates blockages in the meridians, producing numbness and tingling that acupuncture can help correct.
Treatment – Western Medicine
Medications
Anticonvulsants: Gabapentin, Pregabalin – reduce nerve pain.
Antidepressants: Duloxetine (Cymbalta) – first-line therapy for CIPN.
Topical agents: Lidocaine patches, capsaicin creams.
Supplements: Alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin B complex (B1, B6, B12).
Therapies
Physical therapy & posture correction to improve circulation.
Pain management programs: TENS, relaxation therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Treatment – Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Acupuncture
Stimulates blood and Qi circulation.
Reduces inflammation and supports nerve regeneration.
Common points: LI4 (Hegu), ST36 (Zusanli), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), GB34 (Yanglingquan), LV3 (Taichong), plus local points on hands and feet.
Widely used for acupuncture for numbness and tingling caused by chemotherapy.
Herbal Medicine & Natural Remedies
Huang Qi (Astragalus): Strengthens Qi and immunity.
Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis): Nourishes Blood, improves circulation.
Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang: Classical formula for numbness, weakness, and joint pain.
Integrative Care: Natural remedies for chemotherapy neuropathy often combine herbs, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes for optimal results.
Prevention and Lifestyle Care
Western Medicine
Maintain good posture, avoid nerve compression.
Gentle exercise (walking, yoga, Tai Chi) for circulation.
Wear supportive shoes to reduce injury risk.
Monitor blood sugar and vascular health.
TCM & Integrative Care
Diet: Warm, nourishing foods like soups, root vegetables, and cooked grains; avoid raw and cold foods.
Self-care: Massage, acupressure, and warm soaks for the hands and feet.
Stress reduction: Breathing, meditation, and restorative sleep for nerve healing.
Conclusion
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy treatment in NYC requires a comprehensive approach. While Western medicine provides medications and physical therapies, acupuncture for cancer side effects offers a safe, holistic alternative that restores balance, reduces pain, and improves daily function.
At Caulo Care Community in Forest Hills, Queens, we are committed to helping cancer patients find relief and restore vitality through acupuncture, herbal medicine, and integrative care.
📞 Call CauloCare today: (929) 269-4549
📍 Visit us: 75-52 113th St (Office BF), Forest Hills, NY 11375
📧 Email: bookcaulocare@gmail.com
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