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  • “When I had chemotherapy for bowel cancer I got hot flushes. The acupuncture I received almost completely alleviated them.”

    Cancer Patient

Acupuncture

Helping with the symptoms of cancer and the side-effects of treatment.

What can Acupuncture help with?

Acupuncture has been found by many to offer relief for some cancer-related symptoms and side-effects of conventional cancer treatments, such as:

Pain, Feeling sick, Tiredness, Breathlessness, Dry mouth, Hot flushes, Feeling anxious*

What is an acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the use of ultra-fine single-use needles inserted at specific points on the body to treat the underlying cause of symptoms.
Research shows that acupuncture works by stimulating nerves, which release substances that can reduce cancer symptoms. A growing body of evidence-based clinical research indicates that acupuncture safely treats a wide range of conditions.

While there is no evidence to show that acupuncture can treat or cure cancer, there is research to suggest that it can help to relieve some cancer symptoms and the side effects of some cancer treatment. (source – Cancer Research UK)

What can I expect?

Your therapist will begin by asking you about your medical history, medication, diet and sleep routine. They may also ask to look at your tongue and take your pulse, which helps to determine where to place the needles on your body. You may need to remove some clothing, as the needles can’t be inserted through clothes.
Ultra-fine single-use needles are then inserted at specific points on your body to treat the underlying cause of symptoms. You shouldn’t feel pain, but you may experience a sensation around the needles, but it shouldn’t be painful or uncomfortable. The needles are then left in place for 15-30 minutes.

How long does it take?

A session typically takes up to an hour. We normally suggest a course of up to six sessions.
We understand that scheduling treatments around other commitments and oncology appointments isn’t always easy, and are flexible when making and amending appointments. We’re here to help you, not be an additional concern.

Is acupuncture safe?

Acupuncture is generally safe and has very few side effects, when conducted by a professional practitioner. The needles are single use, sterile and disposable, so won’t have been used before or again after your treatment.

You can stop the session at any time if you feel uncomfortable or concerned. It’s your treatment, to be experienced your way.

Our therapists

All of our acupuncturists are qualified to degree level, are registered with the British Council of Acupuncture, and have completed training, provided by NHS staff, in the cancer patient pathway.

They are fully insured, and give their time for free. Donations are used to cover essential items such as continuing professional development of our volunteers, equipment and to pay our essential part-time staff.

*Please note, this is based on anecdotal feedback, and is not a promise that the therapy will give these benefits every time. 

Two FREE Complementary Treatments, then a donation of your choice, for those with cancer or within 6 months of treatment, in Berkshire.

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