The Role of Acupuncture in Pain and Nausea Management 

Some days, getting out of bed feels like the hardest task in the world. Cancer treatment brings pain, nausea, and fatigue that make every moment a challenge. Medicines help, but they don’t always take away the discomfort completely, and sometimes they add new side effects.  Acupuncture is a relaxing treatment that can be used to alleviate these frustrations and bring relaxation and relief when least expected.

How acupuncture helps with Pain

Pain affects more than just the body, and it drains energy, sleep, and even hope. Acupuncture helps by:

• Releasing natural painkillers: The fine needles encourage the release of endorphins, easing discomfort.
• Reducing inflammation: A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Oncology found that acupuncture may lower inflammation and support pain relief in cancer patients.
• Restoring balance: By improving the body’s energy flow, it helps patients feel calmer and more at ease.

Many oncologists now recommend acupuncture alongside standard treatments to enhance comfort and minimise drug dependence.

Easing nausea and vomiting

Chemotherapy often brings nausea that disrupts daily life. Acupuncture offers gentle relief by:

• Targeting nausea points: Stimulating the wrist’s P6 point helps reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy.
• Reducing medicine reliance: It allows patients to use fewer anti-nausea drugs that may cause fatigue.
• Offering quick relief: Sessions are short and soothing, making them easy to fit into a treatment plan.

A 2018 study from the National Library of Medicine reported that acupuncture significantly reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea, improving appetite and overall well-being.

What to expect during a session

The initial encounter is serene and straightforward. An acupuncturist talks to you about your symptoms, then lightly puts quite fine needles at special points, and then leaves you to rest for 20–40 minutes. The majority of the patients report it as non-painful, having a small tingling or warmth. It is always important to discuss acupuncture with your oncologist to make sure that it does not interfere with your treatment plan.

Embracing comfort and calm

Acupuncture is not a treatment; it is a friend. It helps soothe pain, relieve nausea, and bring some balance to life when it seems impossible to find balance. Just a few sessions can bring noticeable relief, helping patients feel calmer and more at ease, even on the toughest days.