Abstract: Objective To analyze the current research status and hotspots of acupuncture and moxibustion in diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) using bibliometric and science knowledge mapping, and to explore its development trend. Methods We retrieved Chinese and English literature on the application of acupuncture and moxibustion of DPN in Chinese Knowledge Network (CNKI) and the Core Collection Database (WOS), with a retrieval period spanning from the inception to August 1, 2024. The data were visualized using Excel2016, CiteSpace6.3.R1, and VOSviewer1.6.20 software through cooperative networks, keyword co-occurrence, and keyword emergence. Results A total of 409 Chinese articles and 98 English articles were collected in CNKI and WOS, respectively, and the annual article output showed an overall upward trend; the majority of English articles were mainly authored in China, the United States, and the United Kingdom; keyword analysis showed that in terms of acupuncture and moxibustion method selection, Chinese articles mainly focused on "acupuncture" and "warm acupuncture," while English articles mainly focused on “traditional acupuncture” and “electrical acupuncture”. Conclusion Research hotspots in CNKI and WOS are clinical research and case report, and randomized controlled clinical trials, respectively. Both Chinese and English literatures lack mechanism studies. Therefore, it is necessary to enhance collaboration among research teams, conduct comparative studies and mechanism research on different acupuncture and moxibustion methods, evaluate the objectivity of research results, and provide Objective evidence for the application of acupuncture and moxibustion in the nursing of DPN.;

Key words: diabetic peripheral neuropathy, xiaoke disease with bi syndrome, acupuncture and moxibustion, visual mapping, bibliometrics