General Risks Of Acupuncture
There are some general risks associated with acupuncture treatment, not solely during cancer treatment. Though all acupuncture needles are sterilized when packaged and used only once, there can theoretically be a risk of infection considering the needle is inserted through the skin layer of the body. This is a very small risk and the author is not aware of any recorded cases of infection from acupuncture. Licensed acupuncturists are trained and certified in Clean Needle Technique, which includes creating an appropriate clean needle field in the treatment room, swabbing the points with alcohol before needling, and properly disposing of needles.
The licensed acupuncturist is also acutely aware of what structures lie at the point being needled. There must be understanding of the general anatomy and consideration of the larger vessels, nerves, and tendons. When needling the chest or upper back, the acupuncturist is deliberate with the angle and depth of insertion to be clear of the lungs. A hematoma, or bruise, occasionally occurs if the needle penetrates a fine capillary that may not even be felt upon insertion. This resolves in a few days.
There are certain points that are avoided during pregnancy, as they can create a downward movement of blood and potentially compromise the security of the baby in the womb. These points however are used effectively at the end of pregnancy to prepare for and stimulate labor.
Specific Risks When Supporting Cancer Treatment
One concern that often comes up during cancer treatment when using acupuncture is when there has been removal of lymph nodes. Because the lymphatic flow is now compromised from the removal of the nodes, there can be swelling or lymphedema. This is common with removal of axillary nodes with breast cancer.
Often, the oncologist will advise to have the acupuncturist avoid needling the arm with lymphedema. This is because if there were an introduction of a virus or bacteria through the skin, it would be more challenging to deal with an infection without those lymph nodes and with poor lymphatic circulation. Again, this is theoretical, as there is a very minimal chance of infection with appropriate needling and clean needle technique which all licensed acupuncturists are required to pass certification on.
Another concern that also comes up is when there are low platelet counts. If a needle goes through a tiny capillary, which may not even be felt, platelets are needed to heal that micro-injury. With lower numbers of platelets, it would take longer to heal and a bruise would most likely be produced. In the author’s experience, people going through cancer treatment may bruise just as rarely as those who are not.
Acupuncture’s Benefits Outweigh the Minimal Risks
Aside from what’s been mentioned here, there are no other significant risks to consider when undergoing cancer treatment. The benefits of acupuncture when receiving chemotherapy, radiation, or after surgery are well documented. The relief from nausea, fatigue, dry mouth, insomnia, anxiety, pain, and neuropathy is so helpful that the minimal risks involved with acupuncture are usually insignificant. You can work cooperatively with your oncologist and your acupuncturist to keep open communication during your treatment with any concerns that may arise.
Joshua Singer is a licensed acupuncturist at Integrative Acupuncture in Montpelier and Williston, Vermont. He started the program of acupuncture treatments for cancer patients at National Life Cancer Treatment Center at University of Vermont Health Network- Central Vermont Medical Center in Berlin, Vermont over 5 years ago. During that time, he has assisted in the integration of acupuncture for cancer patients throughout Central Vermont.
