Acupuncture offers a way to reduce treatment side effects, lessen anxiety, boost mood and support immune function — without medicine.
Acupuncture is a gentle, safe, and relaxing therapy that applies very fine needles to the skin at specific points on the body.
A growing base of evidence shows that activating these acupoints on the body regulates the autonomic nervous system, promotes proper circulation, reduces inflammation, enhances functions of the immune system, and leads to lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol and increases “feel-good” hormones like endorphins.
As a type of traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is based on the idea that the body’s energy or Qi (pronounced “chee”) flows through a series of pathways called meridians or channels. The channels flow through the muscles, connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, lymphatic system and fascia (the membrane that wraps around body landmarks like a sheath). Disease occurs when there is an imbalance in the flow of Qi. Acupuncturists use needles to correct these imbalances and restore harmony and proper function within the mind, body, and emotions.
How acupuncture can help
Acupuncture can help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cancer and cancer treatments by promoting these effects:
- Reduce neuropathy in hands and feet
- Mitigate nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy
- Lessen anxiety and depression
- Reduce hot flashes associated with hormonal changes or treatments
- Improve sleep and quality of rest
- Support fertility
- Boost energy, reduce fatigue
- Support your immune system’s natural healing abilities
What to expect from acupuncture treatment
First, the licensed acupuncturist will discuss your goals for treatment and create a customized treatment plan to best suit your needs. The provider will be sure to avoid any sensitive areas of your body such as ports, tumor locations or areas with lymphedema.
You may receive acupuncture at Roswell Park in your hospital room, during an outpatient chemotherapy or immunotherapy infusion, or schedule an outpatient session in a private or group setting.
- Sterile, hair-fine needles are inserted into the skin with minimal sensation. The number of needles is determined by the reason for your treatment and your overall condition.
- You may feel a temporary small pinch, slight tap, or an awareness of the needled areas. Once the needles have been inserted, we do our best to create a relaxing environment so that you can rest and heal. Many patients are so comfortable they take naps!
- Needles are left in place for 10-30 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.
- You will most likely need more than one treatment before you notice results. Most patients have weekly sessions for the first 5 to 10 treatments, then spread treatments out as needed.
What you should know
You will need a referral from your Roswell Park cancer care team before you can schedule acupuncture services. The cost for an acupuncture treatment session is:
- $80 for a private treatment in the outpatient clinic
- $40 for an inpatient treatment
- $40 for group or infusion chair treatment
If your insurance covers acupuncture, Roswell Park can provide an itemized receipt for you to submit for reimbursement. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify and apply at Roswell Park.
