Peripheral Neuropathy

Necessity of Maintenance Therapy for Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage regenerates slowly, and there is a risk of re-exacerbation as long as the underlying disease (such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders) persists. Even after symptoms have significantly improved, monitoring is necessary to: ① maintain the nerve environment (continued blood flow and antioxidant activity), ② manage the underlying disease (blood sugar, alcohol consumption, and nutrition), and ③ maintain muscle strength and balance (fall prevention). During the maintenance phase, acupuncture treatment once every 2 to 4 weeks and maintenance herbal medicine prescriptions are often sufficient. Since the condition tends to worsen during seasonal transitions (spring, autumn, and winter), it is advisable to add one or two additional intensive treatments during this period.

Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, a complete cure is not merely the disappearance of symptoms, but a state where Jeonggi (the body's regenerative capacity) is fully restored to prevent recurrence. Maintenance treatment is a process of continuing to strengthen Qi and blood until the functions of the Bisin (digestive and kidney energies) are sufficiently stabilized. At Dongjedang, even after symptoms have stabilized, we maintain physical balance through monthly progress checks and seasonal adjustments to the herbal medicine. If signs of recurrence (reincrease in numbness, cold sensation, worsening fatigue) appear, we quickly switch to intensive treatment to prevent further deterioration.