Research concludes that acupuncture reduces hot flashes caused by breast cancer medication. This article discusses chemo side effects acupuncture research. We have seen excellent results in our clinic as well.
The Research
This study was conducted at Yale University and the University of Pittsburg. It looked at women with hot flashes which were brought on by conventional breast cancer treatment (tamoxifen). It concluded that the women who received acupuncture had less hot flashes.
This chemo side effects acupuncture research study was a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Data was collected at the National Institutes of Health funded General Clinical Research Center affiliated with Yale School of Medicine and Yale New Haven Hospital. The study was approved by the Yale University Institutional Review Board. All patient interviews, acupuncture treatments, educational sessions, and lab test specimen collection took place at the Center.
The Details
Researchers found that women receiving acupuncture had a 30 percent reduction of hot flashes. The women received traditional acupuncture points indicated for hot flashes and menopausal symptoms. These points include SP6, KD6, KD2, LI4 and LI11, to name a few. Points were also included to address insomnia, poor concentration, pain, headaches and anxiety.
Study participants received eight, 30 minute, acupuncture treatments over a period of 12 weeks. The first four acupuncture treatments were given once a week and then once every other week.
Tamoxifen and Hot Flashes
The chemotherapy medicine tamoxifen is known to trigger hot flashes. Other hormonal agents used in the breast cancer treatment protocol also can cause hot flashes. This chemo side effects acupuncture research shows that acupuncture is an appropriate treatment for women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer.
The study also measured physical improvements for women receiving acupuncture over the control group. Researches concluded, “There was a significant difference in the average physical quality of life scores from Week 1 to Week 11 in the Acupuncture Specific treatment group. This indicates the acupuncture treatment had an impact on physical symptoms separate from hot flashes.”
What To Expect
These findings support our own experience at the clinic. We have been successfully treating women whose chemotherapy for breast cancer caused hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
We use sterile, single-use, hair thin needles. Treatments are relaxing. Many of our patients fall asleep during their sessions.
Next Steps
BOOK NOW to schedule an appointment online.
WATCH VIDEO ABOUT OUR CHEMO SIDE EFFECTS TREATMENT.
READ CASE STUDY OF PATIENT WE TREATED FOR THIS CONDITION.
Chemo Side Effects Acupuncture Research – References
Cohen Su M, Rousseau Ma E, Berg Ju A, Jolivet Ri , Dixon Ly , Vulte Je , Kern II Jo . Menopausal Symptom Management With Acupuncture For Women With Breast Cancer . WebmedCentral ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2011;2(2):WMC001544.
What our Clients are Saying
I developed severe nausea during my chemotherapy treatments. Raleigh Acupuncture really helped. With each round of treatment I went for a few acupuncture treatments and each time they helped. I got through my cancer treatment easier with their help.
