For conditions where the cancer is detected early, acupuncture may be used before, during and after chemotherapy and radiation treatment to help maintain and promote the normal functioning of the body.
It can help reduce hot flashes in breast cancer, xerostomia induced by radiotherapy in head and neck cancer, nausea and vomiting post-chemotherapy, cancer pain, and fatigue and insomnia. (Study 1) Several studies have shown its ability to boost the immune system and encourage the growth of healthy functioning cells. (Study 2,3,4) This is important for managing the effects of radiation and chemotherapy that tend to attack both normal and abnormal cells. An additional benefit of acupuncture is that it can induce a state of deep calm and relaxation and alleviate physical and emotional tensions.