Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most debilitating side effects of cancer treatment. The numbness, tingling, burning, and pain in the hands and feet can significantly affect quality of life — and conventional medicine offers limited options for managing it.
What CIPN is and why it's difficult to treat
Certain chemotherapy agents — particularly platinum-based drugs and taxanes — damage the peripheral nerves. This results in symptoms ranging from mild tingling to severe pain and loss of function. The symptoms can persist long after treatment ends, sometimes becoming permanent.
Conventional approaches focus mainly on pain management medications, which often have their own side effects and don't address the underlying nerve damage.
How acupuncture helps
Research and clinical experience suggest acupuncture can meaningfully reduce neuropathy symptoms in CIPN patients. The mechanisms include promoting nerve regeneration, improving circulation to the extremities, modulating pain signals in the nervous system, and reducing inflammation.
My background in neurological rehabilitation — developed during my time at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center — informs how I approach neuropathy cases. The advanced acupuncture systems I use, particularly for neurological conditions, allow for precise and targeted treatment.
What to expect
Most patients see meaningful improvement within 6–10 sessions. Treatment is gentle and well-tolerated even during active chemotherapy. It can be used safely alongside ongoing oncology treatment.
If you or someone you care about is dealing with CIPN, I welcome you to join our waitlist and discuss your situation.