Acupuncture assists in the control of nausea and helps reduce the levels of nausea medication required. Trials of acupuncture for radiation-induced dry mouth, chemotherapy induced tingling or pain in fingers, treatment of pain and post-thoracic surgical pain show promising results. An acupuncture study completed at Dana Farber Cancer Institute suggested improved neutrophil (white blood cell) count at the predicted low points and improved rebounding after chemotherapy. Some health plans are beginning to pay for this treatment.
Acupuncture applies needles, heat, pressure and other treatments to one of more places on the skin – known as acupuncture points – where the energy flow has stalled. These points are believed to stimulate the brain and spinal cord, releasing chemicals locally and into the muscles, creating deep relaxation and easing pain and dysfunction.
