What is Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)?
 

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) occurs when chemotherapy medications damage the nerves responsible for transmitting signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. While chemotherapy is effective in targeting cancer cells, it can also affect healthy nerve cells. This nerve damage can cause symptoms such as:

• Numbness or tingling, particularly in the hands and feet

• Pain, often described as burning, stabbing, or shooting

• Sensitivity to touch or temperature changes

• Muscle weakness and difficulty walking

• Loss of coordination and balance
   

For some patients, CIPN is temporary, but it can also lead to long-term or even permanent nerve damage. As symptoms worsen, everyday activities like walking, holding objects, or dressing become challenging. Managing these symptoms is essential to improving your overall quality of life.
 

Natural Healing through Acupuncture

A holistic approach to relieving CIPN is through acupuncture. We begin by assessing your health history and understanding your symptoms in detail. Based on this assessment, we design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The acupuncture protocol is simple and easy to follow, with treatments typically scheduled once a week.
 

By stimulating the body’s healing mechanisms, acupuncture promotes nerve repair and regeneration. The process enhances circulation, bringing oxygen and nutrients to damaged nerves, tissues, and muscles. This increased blood flow reduces inflammation, easing pain and discomfort. Additionally, acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain relievers, helping to reduce burning, stabbing, and aching sensations.
 

Relieving Inflammation and Restoring Function

Inflammation is a common effect of chemotherapy-induced nerve damage, and acupuncture plays a key role in regulating this response. Reducing inflammation can help alleviate swelling and discomfort, especially in the hands and feet. As nerve regeneration occurs, acupuncture also helps restore sensory and motor functions, improving balance, dexterity, and coordination. This can make daily activities like walking, buttoning clothes, or holding objects much easier.
 

Laser Therapy for Enhanced Relief

Stoney Creek Acupuncture also offers Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Cold Laser Therapy, as a complementary treatment. This therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate circulation, reduce nerve damage, and speed up the healing process. It can be combined with acupuncture for a more comprehensive approach to managing CIPN symptoms, providing relief from pain, numbness, and tingling.
 

Get Started with Your Journey to Relief

If you’re struggling with CIPN, Stoney Creek Acupuncture is here to offer effective, natural relief. Contact us today for a consultation, and we will create a treatment plan that is easy to follow. We’re committed to helping you improve your quality of life and support your healing process through our holistic approach.