Acupuncture
Acupuncture Supports Symptom Relief and Well-Being
Acupuncture is a gentle, research-supported therapy that may ease physical and emotional symptoms during and after breast cancer treatment. By activating the nervous system through tiny needles placed on the body or ear, acupuncture can help relieve pain, reduce stress, improve sleep, and ease side effects from surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy.
While acupuncture does not treat cancer itself, many patients find it helps them feel better and cope more effectively during all phases of care—from diagnosis through survivorship or long-term treatment.
How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture uses tiny, hair-thin needles to stimulate the nervous system. Historically used to treat pain, acupuncture is now widely recommended by national oncology organizations as a helpful way to manage side effects of cancer and cancer treatment.
How Acupuncture May Help
Two common treatments can affect your fertility in different ways
Research shows that acupuncture can improve many symptoms related to breast cancer care, including:
- Fatigue
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Hot flashes and night sweats
- Dry mouth
- Nerve pain or neuropathy
- Joint and muscle pain
- Anxiety and stress
- Difficulty sleeping
- Chronic pain
Acupuncture is often used before, during, and after treatment—such as:
- At diagnosis: To ease anxiety and support better sleep
- After surgery: To reduce pain and support healing
- During chemo or radiation: To relieve nausea, fatigue, or nerve discomfort
- During hormonal therapy (e.g., tamoxifen): To ease menopausal symptoms
Oncology Acupuncture vs. General Acupuncture
Seeing an oncology-trained acupuncturist is essential. These professionals:
- Are specially trained to treat cancer-related symptoms
- Understand your treatment plan and may access your medical records
- Know which areas of the body to avoid, especially if you have metastases
- Adjust treatment based on lab results (such as low white blood cell counts)
- Communicate closely with your cancer team to keep you safe
Your cancer center may already include oncology-trained integrative therapists.
Common Concerns: What You Should Know
Fear of Needles
Safety
What to Expect Over Time
Acupuncture works best over time. Each person’s plan will be tailored to their needs, preferences, and treatment status. Here’s what a typical plan might look like:
Weeks 1-2
Weeks 3-6
Beyond 6 Weeks
What About Ear Acupuncture?
A specific technique using just the ear has been shown to relieve five common symptoms during infusion appointments:
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Anxiety
- Depression
Ear acupuncture can sometimes be done during infusion appointments, allowing patients to move freely and participate in their usual clinic activities. It may also save time and reduce the need for additional appointments.
Staying Safe With Acupuncture
Acupuncture is generally a low-risk therapy. Even so, be sure you understand the potential side effects and choose a provider who is familiar with the needs of people in cancer treatment.
Is acupuncture right for me?
Ask your cancer care team if acupuncture is a good option for you. It’s often used to support well-being during:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation
- Surgery recovery
- Endocrine treatment
To get the most benefit, be sure to see an acupuncturist with oncology training who understands your medical condition and treatment history.
Possible Side Effects
While uncommon, side effects can happen—especially when there are added health challenges. Here’s what to know:
- Mild pain or bruising can occur at the needle site
- Bleeding may occur if your platelets are low
- Infection risk increases with chemotherapy or metastatic disease
At cancer centers like Dana-Farber, acupuncturists review your medical records and lab results before each session to ensure safety. Talk to your cancer care team to decide whether acupuncture is right for you.
Choosing a Qualified Community Acupuncturist
If you’re pursuing acupuncture outside of a cancer center, look for a practitioner with:
- State licensure and national board certification
- Experience treating a significant number of cancer patients
- Previous work in medical settings (such as hospitals or multidisciplinary clinics)
- Specialized training in oncology care
- Membership in a professional group – visit the Society for Integrative Oncology (SIO) to learn more.
The right provider will tailor care to your needs and support your comfort throughout treatment.
