The side effects of chemotherapy can often be unpleasant, but there are things you can do for relief both short and long-term.
Chemotherapy is notoriously hard on the body and has been known to leave patients in a very fragile state after its completion. Although it is for most a "necessary evil," you don't always have to suffer as a result. Acupuncture and TCM can help to relieve and remediate some of the most common chemo symptoms during and after the process.
What Does Acupuncture Do?
Looking at the symptoms of Chemotherapy from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, chemotherapy results in poor blood and energy (qi) circulation in the body. The stagnation in the body blocks the necessary nutrients from reaching both the skin and the muscles and can result in skin lesions, itchy rash, and fatigue. Acupuncture, whether or not you are receiving chemo, is one of the best ways to get your bodily systems moving and flowing in ways that help with nutrition and overall health.
Hand-Foot Syndrome
Hand-foot syndrome is a known side effect of chemotherapy characterized by redness, swelling, tingling, numbness, itching and pain in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. A study performed in 2018 showed that acupuncture was incredibly effective in treating and remediating the symptoms of hand-foot syndrome and some people even saw total remission.
Consistency is Key
Acupuncture, although effective, is not a one-and-done cure. Chemotherapy, especially has harsh effects on the body and you should expect your acupuncture to be frequent if you wish to ward off chemotherapy's aggressive symptoms.
Can It Help with Other Symptoms?
Acupuncture is a trusted remedy for many of the common chemo symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fatigue are all things that acupuncture can help with along with any other chemo-related symptom you might encounter. If you're ever unsure if acupuncture is the right fit for you----just ask! We are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Yours in health & wellness,
If you or someone you know has questions about acupuncture for chemotherapy symptoms book our New Patient Special and see how we can help you!
