Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a Chinese medicine method that is based on the belief that a vital energy called ‘Qi’ flows through a network of energy channels in our body.
The main goal of acupuncture is to balance the body and remove any Qi flow blockages so the body can heal itself. During treatment, very thin needles are inserted into the skin in strategic spots.
Studies show that acupuncture helps reduce or eliminate nausea from chemotherapy, post-chemotherapy fatigue, pain, depression, and anxiety.
In recent years, oncology centers have found that integrative therapies such as acupuncture can improve a patient’s overall wellbeing as they cope with cancer treatment.
Why Consider Acupuncture?
For cancer patients, acupuncture is a natural and holistic approach to managing the side effects of cancer and its treatments. It doesn’t treat the cancer directly, but it can help improve overall well-being by reducing symptoms and making the healing process easier.
Acupuncture is often chosen by people who want an alternative to conventional treatments, or who are looking for a way to support their body alongside treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
Acupuncture and Cancer Treatment
How Acupuncture Can Help Cancer Patients
- Natural Pain Relief: Acupuncture is a gentle, drug-free way to manage pain. Cancer treatments or surgery can cause pain that’s hard to deal with, and acupuncture offers a natural option for relief without relying on strong medications.
- Nausea and Vomiting Relief: One of acupuncture’s most proven benefits is its ability to ease nausea and vomiting, especially from chemotherapy. This makes it a great alternative therapy for people looking to avoid medications for nausea.
- Boosting Energy Levels: Many cancer patients feel exhausted from their treatments. Acupuncture can help restore balance in the body, leading to increased energy and less fatigue .
- Emotional Well-Being: Acupuncture doesn’t just help the body; it also helps with the mind. It’s a powerful way to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, which many cancer patients experience during their journey .
- Managing Hot Flashes: For patients undergoing hormone treatments, acupuncture is a natural remedy for hot flashes, reducing their frequency and intensity without medication.
- Improving Dry Mouth: Radiation can cause xerostomia (dry mouth), especially for head and neck cancer patients. Acupuncture offers relief by naturally improving saliva flow.
Is Acupuncture Safe for Cancer Patients?
Acupuncture is safe when performed by a trained and licensed acupuncturist, especially one experienced with cancer patients.
Your acupuncturist will consider your full health history, including any issues like low blood counts or immune system weakness, to make sure the treatment is safe for you.
For cancer patients seeking alternative treatments, acupuncture offers a natural, holistic way to ease pain, manage side effects, and promote emotional well-being.
It’s a gentle yet powerful therapy that can support your body’s healing process without the need for additional medications.
While it won’t replace conventional cancer treatments, acupuncture is a valuable tool in complementary medicine that can help improve quality of life during your cancer journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, acupuncture is well known for helping reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. It can also help with fatigue, pain, and emotional stress that often accompany chemotherapy.
The number of sessions depends on the individual’s condition, type of cancer, and response to treatment. Some patients may feel relief after just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing treatment throughout their cancer care.
Side effects are rare and usually minor, such as slight bruising or soreness at the needle insertion sites. Serious side effects are extremely rare when acupuncture is performed by a qualified professional.
During an acupuncture session, the acupuncturist will insert very fine, sterile needles into specific points on your body. The session usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes, and patients typically feel relaxed or slightly tired afterward.
Some insurance plans cover acupuncture, especially if it’s recommended by your healthcare provider for managing pain or other symptoms. It’s important to check with your insurance company to see what is covered.
Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins (natural feel-good chemicals), helping reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional stress that many cancer patients experience during their treatment journey.
