Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common and disabling complication of diabetes. Many patients experience pain, numbness, and impaired quality of life, while currently available treatments may have limited benefit or cause adverse effects. Electroacupuncture (EA) may provide a safe, non-pharmacological treatment option, but further clinical evidence is needed. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and potential mechanisms of low-frequency (2 Hz) electroacupuncture in patients with DPN. In this prospective, randomized, sham-controlled trial, participants will be assigned to either a verum 2 Hz EA group or a sham EA group. The study will assess nerve conduction velocity, pain intensity, serum neurotrophic factors and inflammatory cytokines, and quality of life. This study is intended to provide clinical evidence on the use of low-frequency EA for DPN and to examine whether its effects are related to neurotrophic and inflammatory pathways.
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Lower limb nerve conduction velocity
Timeframe: Baseline (week 0) and week 6 (Ā±3 days)
Overall clinical response rate
Timeframe: At the end of week 6 (Ā±3 days).