Acupuncture and Cancer: Obtain Relief from Cancer Treatment Side Effects with Acupuncture

Acupuncture uses very fine needles that are inserted into the skin for the treatment of various conditions. Acupuncture is based on belief in qi, the Chinese word for life force or vital energy. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, qi flows through "meridians" that are connected to each other and to the body's organs. Imbalance in qi causes pain or illness, and acupuncture is used to unblock or strengthen the flow of qi. Although there is no scientific evidence for the existence of qi, there is evidence that acupuncture can help treat some illnesses.

How is it Done?

On the first visit, the practitioner reviews symptoms, history, lifestyle, diet, and personality. He or she then does a physical examination and checks the tongue and wrist pulses. The practitioner uses this information to identify imbalances in the patient's qi. During treatment, the practitioner inserts needles into the skin at specific points along the meridians, called acupoints. The needles remain for 15 to 40 minutes, depending on the treatment plan. An acupuncturist may also apply heat to an acupoint by placing a small cone of a dried herb called moxa on an acupoint and lighting it. When the patient feels the warmth, the cone is removed. After treatment, the acupuncturist discusses the experience with the patient and makes recommendations for future sessions.

Does it Work?

An expert panel at the National Institutes of Health reviewed the literature and found acupuncture to be effective in treating side effects of chemotherapy such as headache, nausea, and vomiting. Studies show acupuncture helps relieve pain, shortness of breath, and dry mouth brought on by radiation treatment of the neck. There is no evidence that acupuncture can treat cancer itself.

Is it Safe?

Acupuncture is low risk if practiced by a trained professional. One risk of acupuncture is transmission of infections or blood-borne diseases. Because infection is a risk whenever skin is punctured, acupuncture should not be performed while the patient's white blood cells are low, a condition called neutropenia. The patient should avoid acupuncture if they are taking anticoagulant drugs or are a diabetic, because the body takes longer to heal from even small wounds.

Practitioner Qualifications

Fully trained acupuncturists have graduated from accredited acupuncture programs and may work as independent health care providers. Medical doctors who have received additional training may perform acupuncture, as can naturopaths and chiropractors in some states. Legal regulation of acupuncture varies from state to state. In states with no licensing laws, people with limited training can call themselves acupuncturists. Make sure the acupuncturist you choose is trained through an accredited program.

Cost in Time and Money

Cost depends on where you live and on the practitioner's training and experience. A first visit typically costs between $65 and $150, with follow-up visits costing between $50 and $90. Some insurance policies may cover a portion of acupuncture costs. A series of acupuncture sessions is usually prescribed for a chronic illness or physical rehabilitation. Each visit will last between half an hour and an hour, depending on the treatment plan.