Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of pain conditions and other symptoms. Skilled health professionals are often trained to use acupuncture in combination with anti-cancer therapies.
Acupuncture releases natural substances in the spinal cord and brain that resemble morphine (endorphins), offering pain relief. Acupuncture also releases serotonin, a chemical nerve cells produce that can promote a feeling of well-being, and healthy sleep patterns and increase appetite. The release of these substances can reduce and relieve the symptoms of cancer and the side effects of chemotherapy and other therapies.
Benefits / It is used to relieve and treat the following symptoms
Pain
Studies have shown that acupuncture can help with joint pain and stiffness.
Motion sickness
Research has shown that acupuncture can have a real benefit in treating nausea and vomiting, which are possible side effects of chemotherapy.
Fatigue and weakness
Fatigue after chemotherapy affects many patients and has often a major impact on their lives. Research has shown that acupuncture has helped reduce fatigue and improve the quality of life of people receiving chemotherapy.
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Acupuncture is used for the symptom of dry mouth, which often affects people undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. Acupuncture is a safe treatment used as supplementary therapy in palliative care to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
Shortness of breath
Several studies have researched acupuncture regarding cancer-related shortness of breath. It has been shown that acupuncture can help relieve shortness of breath especially in relation with other comforting methods, such as morphine intake.
Anxiety, depression
Acupuncture may be able to help reduce anxiety and treat mood disorders.