Managing Chronic Kidney Disease and Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine: A Case Study

This case study details the treatment of a 59-year-old male with Stage 3B chronic kidney disease (CKD) and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy of the left limbs using acupuncture and bulk herbs. After 6 weeks of combined acupuncture and herbal treatments, glomerular filtration rate increased significantly from 37 mL/min to 51 mL/min and serum creatinine level decreased from 1.85 mg/dL to 1.41 mg/dL. After a course of 15 acupuncture treatments over 4 months with some appointments in closer proximity, the patient additionally reported increased sensation of his left limbs. Since there are limited treatments for CKD, others with CKD may benefit from acupuncture and herbal treatments. This study offers an approach to managing CKD and chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy more effectively using herbs and acupuncture supported by biomedical verification results.