Acupuncture is an alternative medical system involving the insertion of thin needles into the skin. It is commonly used by cancer patients because of its ability to relieve pain and stress and improve overall well-being. By placing needles at strategic points, different areas of the body can be stimulated. This is believed to be achieved either by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissues in the area causing more of the body’s natural painkillers to be produced or by balancing the flow of energy in the body. Because the needles are very thin, there is minimal discomfit with insertion, with many people not able to feel the needle being inserted at all. Between 5-20 needles are typically used, at different depths. Once the needles are inserted, they can be manipulated by twirling or applying heat or mild electrical pulses. The needles are typically removed after about 10-20 minutes.[1]

Studies have shown that cancer patients receiving acupuncture had decreased symptoms including fatigue, nausea, vomiting, pain, neuropathy (nerve pain), dry mouth, hot flashes, lymphedema (swelling), depression, and anxiety.[2,3] Acupuncture was also found to improve immune function and the ability to sleep in cancer patients.[2] For cancer patients, it is especially important that needles are properly sterilized since certain types of cancer as well as cancer treatments can lower the body’s ability to fight infection.[3] Acupuncture can also be helpful in treating chronic pain in cancer survivors.[4]

References

1.     Acupuncture https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/acupuncture/about/pac-20392763 (accessed Jun 3, 2021).

2.     Eldridge, L. Acupuncture for Cancer Patients https://www.verywellhealth.com/acupuncture-for-cancer-2248956 (accessed Jun 10, 2021).

3.     Acupuncture (PDQ®)–Patient Version https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/patient/acupuncture-pdq (accessed Jun 10, 2021).

4.     Can Acupuncture Help Cancer Survivors with Chronic Pain? https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2021/acupuncture-for-pain-cancer-survivors (accessed Jun 10, 2021).