December 27, 2017

Acupuncture for Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

 Can Acupuncture help with Peripheral Neuropathy

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neruopathy (CIPN) is a common and often severe side effect of a number of chemotherapy treatments with symptoms generally appearing in a dose dependent & progressive manner throughout treatment. In fact, up-to 1 in 4 patients receiving chemotherapy may develop some form of peripheral neuropathy. Unfortunately for many, these symptoms rarely alleviate once chemotherapy have been ceased. Acupuncture has showed promising results when administered in adjunct to chemotherapy in order to alleviate symptoms & improve quality of life in a number of cases.

What is Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy?

CIPN is defined as damage to the peripheral nerves resulting in weakness, paraesthesia “pins & needles”, numbness, loss of proprioception & pain. These symptoms mainly appear in the hand & feet of the individual, however can also affect many other areas &/or functionality of the body. The specific set of symptoms a person may experience is reliant upon whether sensory, motor or autonomic nerves have been affected.

• Motor Nerves | control muscle movement.
• Sensory Nerve Damage | control & receive sensations (i.e. temperature, pain, touch, vibration).
• Autonomic Nerve Damage | control automatic processes (i.e. blood pressure, heart rate, digestion & bladder function)

Can acupuncture assist me?

Acupuncture has been clinically trialled & found to be up to effective in the management of CIPN. Research conducted by Donald, Tobin & Stringer (2011) reported 82% of patients receiving a total of 6 acupuncture sessions reported an improvement in CIPN symptoms. Treatment was also found to have additional benefits including improved sleep quality, stress reduction & improved moods.

A systematic review conducted by Franconi et. al (2013) found acupuncture to be effective in reducing pain scores in patients experiencing CIPN across most studies included in the review. A number of studies showed positive effects of acupuncture on motor & sensory symptoms associate with CIPN & improve quality of life for the participants significantly.

Acupuncture may also have a beneficial influence over inflammatory pathways which may contribute & precipitate CIPN symptoms such as pain & loss of mobility. Activation of the nervous system may also be responsible for the reduction of symptoms & rehabilitation of normal functionality including mobility, muscle control & sensory

For more information regarding CIPN & acupuncture please email info@artofacupuncture.com.au or click here to book a consultation.

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Bob Wong was raised in a traditional Chinese medicine family and moved to mainland China to study and train for almost a decade. During that time, he was able to learn from some of the top acupuncturists and Chinese Medicine practitioners in at the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. His mission is not bring that knowledge and experience to help his patients.

*Results may vary from person to person. The owner of this website does not claim to cure, or prevent any disease or illness. For more information on how acupuncture works, contact info@artofacupuncture.com.au