Is acupuncture right for me?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of medicine that has been used in China and other Asian countries for more than 4,000 years.¹ Today, acupuncture is used in many contexts, including for the relief of side effects of cancer treatment.^1,2

It involves stimulation of specific locations on the body called “acupuncture points” using either very fine needles^2–4 or warmth, pressure, or suction.¹ This stimulation is thought to restore the flow of vital energy called “qi” along specific paths called “meridians” through the body.^1,2 In this way, any symptoms that result from blockage of the energy flow are relieved.^1,2

The acupuncture needles stimulate nerves to release natural chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin.^1,3,4 These substances act to relieve muscle tension and pain, and this is why acupuncture might improve your feeling of well-being.^3,4

You are most likely to benefit from acupuncture when it is used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by your cancer chemotherapy.¹ You may also find that acupuncture reduces pain caused by the cancer itself or the numbness or tingling in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy) caused by chemotherapy.^1,2

Acupuncture can also be used to treat the following symptoms:^1,2

Fatigue
Hot flushes
Dry mouth
Weight loss
Lack of appetite
Constipation or diarrhoea
Anxiety
Depression
Disturbed sleep

During treatment, your practitioner will put very fine, sterile, stainless-steel needles into your skin.^1–4 This should not be painful but may cause a tingling feeling.^1,3 The number of needles used depends on your symptoms and how you respond.³ The needles are removed after 10 to 30 minutes.³

Acupuncture affects people differently. It may relax you or energise you.² You might feel a bit “spaced out” for a short while just after the first treatment, and then you may feel worse, or just different, before you start to feel better.²

People need different numbers of acupuncture treatments.³ You will probably feel the benefit after between three and six sessions.³

When carried out by a trained professional, western medical acupuncture is generally safe and rarely has side effects.^3,4

Acupuncture is not suitable for everyone (for example, people at risk of infections), so if you think you want to try acupuncture, check with your doctor first.^2,4

Glossary

References