Expert: Tamsen Staniford, L.Ac. - 4/29/2009

Question
I had radiation treatment to the neck area 4 yrs ago and I have nerve damage to the C2 and C3 spinal area. I am on nerve pain med and they state it could take up to a year or so to heal. Can acupucture or herbs heal better than taking pain meds?

Answer
Nerve damage is very difficult to treat both by pharmaceutical drugs and by herbs/acupuncture.  However, herbs and acupuncture can help with the pain by interrupting the body's perception of the pain.  There are many Chinese herbal formulas that can also help relieve pain.  
As far as increasing healing time, both acupuncture and herbal medicine will help.  It is also generally safe to integrate acupuncture and herbal medicine with the treatment you are already receiving.  
Personally, I have seen limited progress using acupuncture for nerve damage pain similar to what you describe, but I believe that to be my own shortcoming and not that of Chinese medicine in general.  Find a Licensed Acupuncturist near you and see how it goes.
There are other underlying factors that will help speed your recovery as well.  The most important factor is your diet.  Make sure your body is getting the nutrients it needs to work its best; and stay away from unhealthy foods such as those high is trans fats and refined sugars.  Also stay away from alcohol and caffeine.  Stress reduction and getting plenty of good quality sleep will also increase your body's ability to heal faster.