Peripheral Neuropathy

If peripheral neuropathy is left untreated, damage spreads in the order of sensory nerves → motor nerves → autonomic nerves. Diabetic foot (diabetic foot lesions), where ulcers develop because wounds are not felt due to reduced sensation, is a representative complication and can lead to amputation in severe cases. As motor nerve damage progresses, it leads to decreased ankle muscle strength (foot drop), balance disorders, and an increased risk of falls. Damage to the autonomic nerves can cause orthostatic hypotension, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and abnormal sweating. While the rate of progression varies depending on the cause, diabetic and hereditary conditions continue to worsen if left untreated. Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic In Korean medicine, deterioration due to neglect is a process of depleting Jeonggi (the body's restorative capacity). If initial stagnation of Qi and blood persists, blood stasis (stuck blood) hardens; furthermore, if the function of the spleen and kidneys continues to weaken, it can progress to the stage of Weijeung (muscle atrophy), where the muscles and skeleton itself contract. From a Korean medicine perspective, early treatment is key. If a decline in motor function has already begun, treatment involving moxibustion or fire acupuncture is necessary to loosen hardened tissues and actively restore blood flow around nerve pathways. Individuals with decreased sensation in their feet must make it a daily habit to check for foot wounds.