Numbness in Hands and Feet: Insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine - Traditional Chinese Medicine

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Numbness in the hands and feet?


I had numbness in my hands and feet, so I consulted a neurologist and underwent a nerve conduction study, which came back normal.
I then saw an orthopedic doctor for X-rays, which revealed cervical spine stenosis causing compression.
Currently, I am receiving rehabilitation treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
I also have numbness in my legs and buttocks, which the practitioner attributed to sciatica.
I have been receiving acupuncture and tui na (Chinese therapeutic massage) every other day, with four needles in my neck and two in my lower back.
I have been undergoing this treatment for over three months.
My hand numbness seems to have improved slightly, but the numbness in my feet has not changed.
How long will it take for me to recover? The doctor mentioned that I should generally be getting better, but I haven't experienced that.
What should I do? I read online that if rehabilitation is ineffective after three months, surgery may be necessary.
Is this true? I hope to avoid surgery, which is why I am seeking treatment from traditional Chinese medicine.
Thank you.

Karmen, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/04/17

Dr. He Yujun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine


It is recommended to complement the treatment with cupping, bloodletting, or the internal use of traditional Chinese medicine.
However, these treatments should be determined by a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner based on individual constitution and clinical presentation.
One should avoid believing in unverified folk remedies or undergoing unclear treatment methods to prevent delaying the condition.

Reply Date: 2012/04/17

More Info


Understanding numbness in the hands and feet can be a complex issue, especially when considering the insights from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing numbness in your hands and feet, which has been evaluated through various medical approaches, including neurology and orthopedics. The findings of cervical spine narrowing and the diagnosis of sciatica suggest that there may be underlying structural issues contributing to your symptoms.

In TCM, numbness is often viewed as a result of Qi (energy) and blood stagnation, which can be influenced by various factors such as injury, poor circulation, or imbalances in the body. The fact that you are undergoing acupuncture and tuina (Chinese therapeutic massage) indicates that your TCM practitioner is aiming to restore the flow of Qi and blood, alleviate pain, and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

The duration of treatment and the time it takes to see improvement can vary significantly from person to person. Factors that influence recovery include the severity of the condition, the duration of symptoms, individual health status, and adherence to treatment protocols. While you have noted some improvement in hand numbness, the persistent numbness in your feet suggests that further attention may be needed.

In TCM, the treatment approach typically involves a combination of acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary recommendations, and lifestyle changes. Acupuncture can help stimulate specific points to enhance circulation and relieve pain. It is essential to communicate openly with your TCM practitioner about your progress and any concerns you have. They may adjust your treatment plan based on your response to therapy.

Regarding the concern about surgery, it is crucial to understand that surgical intervention is generally considered a last resort, particularly if conservative treatments like acupuncture and physical therapy have not yielded satisfactory results after a reasonable period. The three-month mark you mentioned is a common timeframe for assessing the effectiveness of conservative treatments, but it does not necessarily mean that surgery is the only option if improvement is not seen. Many patients experience gradual improvement over time, and some may take longer than others to respond to treatment.

If you are not experiencing the expected improvement, it may be beneficial to seek a second opinion from another healthcare provider, whether in TCM or Western medicine. Additionally, consider discussing your treatment goals and concerns with your current practitioner. They may suggest complementary therapies, such as physical therapy, dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications, to support your recovery.

In summary, while your journey toward recovery may feel frustrating, it is essential to remain patient and proactive in your treatment. Continue to engage with your TCM practitioner, explore additional supportive therapies, and maintain open communication about your symptoms and progress. With time and appropriate care, many individuals can achieve significant improvements in their condition without the need for surgical intervention.

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