Getting to the Point with Acupuncture
By Dr. Liem Quang Le, DAOM
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine
Acupuncture is an ancient practice dating back more than 3,000 years. It is used throughout the world to treat and ease symptoms of a wide range of diseases and medical conditions. Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin, hair-like, sterilized needles into specific points of the body to promote the healing process by correcting the flow of circulation. Acupuncture is safe, painless, and has a very low risk of complications. Although acupuncture does not target tumors or prevent cancerous cells from spreading, it does offer significant benefits for people with cancer.
Acupuncture can be a helpful treatment for cancer patients before, during, and after chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy or surgery. Research has shown it can:
• Reduce pain (from cancer or surgery)
• Relieve stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Sleeping issues
• Improve and boost immune health
It can also help manage side effects of cancer treatment such as nausea and vomiting, fatigue, dry mouth, hot flashes and much more.
The side effects of cancer treatment can be as bad as symptoms of the disease itself, reducing a patient’s overall quality of life. Acupuncture is not a cure for cancer, but it can complement traditional anti-cancer interventions by managing the symptoms and side effects of the disease. Acupuncture is a natural, holistic and safe therapeutic option for all age groups. It is an excellent option to consider if you or your loved one is suffering from the effects of cancer and its treatments.
Services are available at the Magnolia campus in the Integrative/Supportive Care Department on select days, with an off-site option. All scheduling and payment for services is managed by the Dr. Liem Le, DAOM. Should you have any specific questions, please contact Dr. Le at Liem.LeLau@Moffitt.org.
Content for this story is from PARTNERS spring 2017; a newsletter of the Patient and Family Advisory Program. For more information about the Patient and Family Advisory Program, please email Kim.Buettner@Moffit.org or call 813-745-1390.