Acupuncture

 

 

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) have been used for thousands of years to maintain health and relieve symptoms.  Practitioners work to treat imbalances in the body's Qi, or vital energy, by inserting fine needles at specific acupoints.

 

Since acupuncture has few side effects, it can be safely used as a complement to conventional cancer treatments.  In fact, in many cancer cases it's recommended as a way to soothe and reduce side effects.  According to the National Institutes of Health, acupuncture has been found to be effective in relieving:

 

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fatigue

• Post-surgical pain

 

Acupuncture and TCM can also help relieve stress, depression, and anxiety, which can greatly improve your quality of life during this challenging time.

 

In addition to acupuncture, your practitioner may also provide massage, acupressure, nutritional counseling, or an exercise program designed to help you stay as healthy as possible.  He/she may also recommend herbal medicines or vitamin supplements.

 

Remember to always communicate with your health care providers about these and any other medications you take in order to avoid any drug interactions.