Peripheral neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a disorder of the peripheral nerves, meaning the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It can result from various causes and leads to abnormal sensations, pain, numbness, or muscle weakness in the affected areas of the body—usually the hands and feet.

Typical symptoms include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, and stabbing pain, which often become more intense at rest or during the night. In some cases, there is a reduced perception of pain and temperature, increasing the risk of injury. Neuropathy can also lead to muscle weakness or coordination problems, which may make walking and grasping more difficult. Depending on its progression, peripheral neuropathy can significantly affect daily life.

Peripheral nerves consist of somatosensory nerves (somatic nervous system) and autonomic nerves (autonomic nervous system). Somatosensory nerves control senses like touch, temperature proprioception, and pain, and include 12 cranial nerves connected to our conscious perception. Sensory nerves originate from the sense organs and include 31 pairs of spinal nerves, which are motor nerves that connect to motor organs. The autonomic nerves regulate the intestines, blood vessels, digestive tract, and sphincters and even play a role in the regulation of white blood cell activity, which is important for the body’s immune function. The autonomic nervous system has preganglionic and postganglionic nerve fibers. Chemical neurotransmitters are secreted at the ends of these nerves, transmitting excitatory signals and enabling nerve conduction. This allows us to move freely, feel, and respond.

The autonomic nervous system is divided into the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, which act in opposition to each other, playing roles comparable to the Yin-Yang theory in traditional Chinese medicine. Only when these autonomic systems function smoothly can the body’s five organs and neurotransmitters be steadily regulated, maintaining health and a sense of well-being for both mind and body.

If this nerve conduction is blocked due to trauma or if a reduction in neurotransmitter secretion alters nerve signaling, sensory disturbances such as tingling, prickling, and numbness may occur, and motor nerve function can be impaired, potentially leading to paralysis.

The purpose of acupuncture for stimulating peripheral nerves is to restore normal nerve conduction abnormalities. This is achieved by using meridians to directly stimulate the peripheral nerves, promoting the normal secretion of neurotransmitters.

We would be happy to advise you on your individual symptoms and the possible therapies.