Acupuncture is sometimes used as a complementary treatment for peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage that can cause pain, burning, tingling, numbness, or weakness, often in the feet and hands). What the evidence shows Research suggests acupuncture may help reduce neuropathy symptoms in some people, particularly: Pain Tingling and burning sensations Numbness Sleep disturbances related to nerve pain Quality of life The strongest evidence exists for some cases of: Diabetic Neuropathy Neuropathy related to chemotherapy treatment Certain idiopathic peripheral neuropathies However, studies vary in quality, and acupuncture is generally considered a symptom-management approach, not a cure for the underlying nerve damage. What a typical treatment involves A licensed acupuncturist may: Place very thin needles at specific points on the body. Use manual acupuncture or electroacupuncture mild electrical stimulation through the needles Recommend a series of sessions, often 1–2 times weekly for several weeks before assessing results.