HEALTH ADVICE

August 21, 2024

Acupuncture Can Help Ease Cancer Treatment Side Effects

By Laurie Melrose-DoeringOsteopath & Applied Kinesiologist

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Cancer treatment is a critical component in the fight against cancer, but it often comes with a variety of side effects that can be physically taxing and emotionally overwhelming. Common treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can lead to significant discomfort and mental stress, impacting the quality of life for those affected. As a complementary therapy, acupuncture offers a natural, effective means of managing these side effects, providing relief and enhancing overall well-being for cancer patients.

Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body. This practice has been shown to stimulate the body’s energy flow, promote balance, and trigger the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In the context of cancer care, acupuncture can play a crucial role in supporting patients by mitigating the adverse effects of conventional treatments and fostering a holistic healing environment.

Understanding the Impact of Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatments are essential for combatting the disease, but they often have significant side effects that can adversely affect patients’ quality of life. Understanding these challenges is crucial for developing comprehensive care strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of treatment.

Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatments

  1. Nausea and Vomiting:
  • Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting are among the most common and distressing side effects faced by cancer patients. These symptoms can severely affect patients’ ability to maintain proper nutrition and hydration, leading to further complications.
  1. Fatigue and Pain:
  • Persistent fatigue and pain are prevalent among cancer patients, often resulting from the treatments themselves and the body’s response to fighting the disease. These symptoms can hinder daily activities and reduce the overall quality of life.
  1. Emotional Distress:
  • A cancer diagnosis can trigger a range of emotional responses, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Emotional distress affects a patient’s mental health and can also exacerbate physical symptoms, creating a challenging cycle of discomfort.
  1. Sleep Disturbances:
  • Many cancer patients experience disruptions in their sleep patterns, including insomnia and restlessness. These disturbances can further contribute to fatigue and emotional distress, complicating the recovery process.

How Acupuncture Can Help

Acupuncture offers a multifaceted approach to managing cancer treatment side effects, addressing both the physical and emotional challenges faced by patients.

Acupuncture’s Role in Cancer Care

  1. Alleviating Nausea and Vomiting: Research has shown that acupuncture can effectively reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting by targeting specific acupuncture points associated with the digestive system. This can significantly improve patients’ comfort and ability to tolerate treatments.
  1. Reducing Pain and Discomfort: Acupuncture has been shown to alleviate various types of pain, including musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, and neuropathic pain. By stimulating specific points related to pain relief and relaxation, acupuncture helps soothe sore muscles, alleviate joint pain, and improve overall comfort levels for cancer patients.
  1. Boosting Energy and Well-being: Acupuncture addresses imbalances in the body’s energy system, known as Qi, which can help boost energy levels and promote a sense of well-being. This natural approach combats fatigue and restores vitality, even after cancer treatment ends.
  1. Supporting Emotional Health: Acupuncture’s calming and grounding effects provide essential support for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress due to their cancer diagnosis and treatment. By promoting relaxation and emotional balance, acupuncture can enhance mental resilience and quality of life .
  2. Improving Sleep Quality: Acupuncture can regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality by calming the nervous system and reducing stress. This can lead to more restful sleep and improved overall health and well-being for cancer patients.

Additional Benefits of Acupuncture in Cancer Care

  1. Enhancing Immune Function: Acupuncture may help strengthen the immune system, enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections and recover from treatments. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with weakened immune systems due to cancer and its treatments.

 

  1. Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a common issue in cancer patients, contributing to pain and other complications. Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation by promoting the release of anti-inflammatory substances in the body.

 

  1. Promoting Digestive Health: Acupuncture supports digestive health by alleviating symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea, which can result from cancer treatments. This contributes to better nutrient absorption and overall health.

Conclusion

Acupuncture serves as a valuable complementary therapy for managing the side effects of cancer treatments, providing relief and enhancing overall well-being. By addressing physical discomfort and emotional challenges, acupuncture can improve the quality of life for cancer patients and support their recovery process. For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, incorporating acupuncture into the supportive care plan may offer a more comprehensive approach to healing.

Acupuncture Support for Cancer Patients at Aston Clinic London

At Aston Clinic London, our acupuncturists are committed to providing personalised care for cancer patients, focussing on managing side effects and enhancing overall well-being. With extensive experience, we offer acupuncture treatments tailored to address each patient’s unique physical and emotional needs.

Our holistic approach aims to reduce discomfort, boost energy levels, and support emotional health, helping patients navigate their cancer journey with greater comfort and resilience. 

We work collaboratively with medical professionals to integrate acupuncture into each patient’s care plan, ensuring a coordinated approach that complements existing medical treatments and supports overall health and well-being.

To book an acupuncture session with one of our practitionersclick here. Alternatively, you can contact us at020 8942 3148 to learn how our treatments can benefit you.

Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.

By Laurie Melrose-DoeringOsteopath & Applied Kinesiologist

References

 

  • He, Y., Guo, X., May, B. H., Zhang, A. L., Liu, Y., Lu, C., & Xue, C. C. (2013). Clinical evidence for association of acupuncture and acupressure with improved cancer pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013. Available at: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/article-abstract/2757396

 

  • Wu, X., Chung, V. C., Hui, E. P., Ziea, E. T., Ng, B. F., & Wong, S. Y. (2015). Effectiveness of acupuncture and related therapies for palliative care of cancer: overview of systematic reviews. Scientific Reports, 5, 16776. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/srep16776

 

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