Nerve pain · Neuropathy
Acupuncture for neuropathy in Scottsdale
Numb toes, pins and needles, feet that burn at night. Peripheral neuropathy means the long nerves to your hands and feet are struggling. I use gentle electroacupuncture to work with those nerves, alongside your doctor's care.
90-min first visit $350 · 1:1 with Dr. Phil · works alongside your medical team
What is happening
Long nerves, long distance
The nerves that reach your toes are some of the longest cells in your body, running from your lower spine all the way to your feet. Long lines are the first to struggle when blood sugar runs high, after certain chemotherapy drugs, with low B12, or simply with age.
When they struggle, the messages get scrambled: too quiet (numbness), too loud (burning, electric pain), or mixed up (tingling). Electroacupuncture adds a small, steady signal near those nerves, which is why it's being studied for exactly this problem.
Who I see
Common reasons people come in
- Neuropathy after chemotherapy, especially taxane drugs
- Diabetic or pre-diabetic neuropathy, alongside your doctor
- Burning or tingling feet that wreck sleep
- Numbness that makes walking and balance feel less sure
- Neuropathy with no clear cause, once your doctor has checked the basics
See your doctor promptly for sudden weakness, a foot wound that isn't healing, or numbness that spreads quickly. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily.
What the research shows
Strongest for chemotherapy-related neuropathy
A 2026 review of 10 randomized trials (653 breast cancer patients) found acupuncture improved neuropathy symptoms and reduced pain compared with control groups, with the clearest benefit for taxane-related neuropathy. It did not show a change in nerve conduction tests.
A 2025 randomized trial compared electroacupuncture frequencies for chemotherapy neuropathy. A mix of low and high frequency had the best overall response, and low frequency helped sensory symptoms most. Frequency matters, which is why I set it deliberately for each person.
For diabetic and other neuropathies, research is earlier and less consistent. I'll be honest with you about that, and we'll measure what changes for you: sleep, pain, balance and how your feet feel.
Your first visit
Where we start
- 90 minone-on-one
- $350first visit
- $800four-session program, if it fits
- Writtenplan and home care
We'll go through your history, medications and what you notice day to day, check sensation and balance, and start treatment the same visit. You'll leave with a plan and simple foot care for home.
Questions
Neuropathy FAQ
Does acupuncture reverse neuropathy?
I can't promise that. The goal is fewer symptoms, better sleep and steadier walking. Many people notice changes in how their feet feel; nerve tests often don't change.
Is it safe if my feet are numb?
Yes, with care. I check your skin first, use sterile single-use needles, and avoid any area with a wound or infection.
Can I do this during chemotherapy?
Talk with your oncology team first. Many people start during or after treatment with their oncologist's OK, and I'll work around your blood counts and schedule.
How many visits will I need?
Most people start with a block of weekly visits so we can see what changes. We reassess together after the first few.
Do you take insurance?
ATRIUM is in network with BCBS of Arizona, depending on your plan. Most care is self-pay.
Sources
Research cited on this page
- Huang B, et al. Efficacy and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol. 2026;16:1690446. PubMed 41613176
- Shen Q, et al. Electroacupuncture frequency for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy in breast cancer: a randomized controlled trial. Oncologist. 2025;30(9):oyaf262. PubMed 40828899
Keep reading
Related care
Feet that feel more like yours
Book a first visit, or start with a free 15-minute call with me.
