Acupuncture and Cancer

Question:

You recommend acupuncture for treating cancer. However, acupuncture is contra-indicated, as it is liable to spread malignant cells.

Susan F.

Response:

Hello Susan,
Yes, you are correct that the stimulating properties of acupuncture can increase the activity of a cancer cells. But, acupuncture treatments of points distant to the tumor to correct the underlying imbalance of the body that initiated the cancer appear to be safe and are used commonly. Acupuncture can also be used for the secondary pain and loss of appetite that often occurs with cancer.

Some acupuncturist will only use herbal therapies, some will use both, it very much depends on the specific condition and presentation of the individual animal. This is the advantage of Acupuncture/Traditional Chinese Medicine in that the individual is treated for the cause/root of the disease to support the body’s immune system. The goal being to maintain a good quality of life during the healing and recovery process.
Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA