What are the benefits of acupuncture in Cancer Treatment ? Studies have shown that acupuncture is effective alone or when used with conventional therapies to treat these conditions: cancer chemotherapy. Acupuncture Acupuncture may help with the side effects of cancer and its treatment. There is evidence that it works for some symptoms. But we need more research. Summary Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine used in Western medicine. It can work in sickness caused by chemotherapy. It can work for some other symptoms. Side effects are rare. What is acupuncture? Acupuncture involves putting fine needles into the body at particular points. The needles stay in place for a short time. The practitioner then removes it. Acupuncture first started in traditional East Asian medicine. It became an important part of Chinese medicine about 2000 years ago. But we now know how it works in scientific terms as well. Ancient Chinese medicine suggests that energy called Qi flows through the body. It moves along channels called meridians. Acupuncture alters this flow to restore or optimise good health. Western medical acupuncture is a modern interpretation of acupuncture based on scientific research. Practitioners give treatments following a medical diagnosis. They can give it alongside conventional cancer treatments. These include cancer drugs or radiotherapy. Acupuncture is used to treat a wide range of pain conditions and some other symptoms. Many doctors train in Western medical acupuncture. Other qualified health professionals also often train to use acupuncture alongside anti cancer treatments. Why people with cancer use it Medical research shows that acupuncture works by stimulating nerves. It releases the natural morphine-like substances (endorphins) in the spinal cord and brain. This relieves pain. Acupuncture also releases serotonin. Serotonin is a pain reliever which can promote a feeling of wellbeing. The release of these substances can reduce cancer symptoms. People with cancer might have acupuncture to relieve sickness. This can be because of chemotherapy or other cancer drugs. Acupuncture is available in most hospitals, hospices and clinics. Your doctor might refer you to have acupuncture because you have pain or other symptoms such as: tiredness and weakness (fatigue) a dry mouth breathlessness hot flushes due to anti cancer treatments People say that acupuncture also helps them to feel relaxed. And it improves their feeling of wellbeing. How you have it Your practitioner will ask you general questions about your health and lifestyle. This can include how you're sleeping and eating. It might also be on how you’re feeling both physically and emotionally. Tell your practitioner about: any health problems you have any medicines you take the cancer symptoms you have the treatment side effects you have.