Acupuncture for people undergoing cancer treatment

19 March 2021

What is Acupuncture & is it safe for Cancer Patients?

Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine single use, disposable needles into surface areas on the body that can directly influence the internal organs and systems, as well as the muscles. In the hands of a well-trained practitioner Acupuncture is considered safe for people undergoing cancer treatment and beyond and has been found to be cost effective for some conditions, with minimal side effects compared to some drugs and other interventions.

What should I expect from my first Acupuncture session?

In your first Acupuncture session in order to best treat the side effects side effects of your cancer treatments or disorders, the Acupuncturist will ask a series of questions about your medical history, your current medications, your lifestyle and your current complaints. They will then take your Chinese Medicine Pulse at three different positions on each wrist, using first gentle then stronger pressure to feel in depth. They will also ask to look at your tongue. They may also check your abdomen and test for hot and cold places on your arms and legs. This information will all go towards reaching a Chinese Medicine diagnosis with which to then apply Acupuncture needles your body. They will remain inserted for up to half an hour during which you can rest.

What are the Benefits of Acupuncture for Cancer Patients?

Research indicates that acupuncture has a positive effect in:

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting,
Post-operative nausea and vomiting
Post-operative pain
There is also good evidence for chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy.

The realisation that pharmacological and surgical interventions are not without their limitations has increased interest in drug-free treatments such as acupuncture.

If you have any further questions about Acupuncture in Cancer Care, or if you would like to make a booking, please get in touch with our friendly team at MIOG on (03) 9571 7498 or complete our Contact Us form on our website and we will be happy to organise a session with our experienced Acupuncturist Roy Hughson.

About the Author: MIOG support team

At MIOG, all staff are qualified practitioners, including our valued receptionists and administration support team. With Bachelors of Health Science in either Naturopathy or Nutritional Medicine, the team are educated and experienced, with valuable insight into nutritional, herbal, and lifestyle interventions for oncology care.