Purpose: To investigate the mechanism of acupuncture treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Methods: Acupuncture therapy was used to treat diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and compared with oral calcium antagonist and vitamin therapy by random control observation.Electromyography was performed for analysis at the same time. Results: Acupuncture treatment alleviated symptoms such as extremity numbness, pain and paresthesia in varying degrees in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. The results of electromyography showed a marked improvement in motor and sensory conduction velocities. Conclusion: It is indicated that acupuncture therapy is markedly superior to oral calcium antagonist and vitamin therapy in clinical effect on diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and electromyographic recovery.