Acupuncture
Acupuncture, practiced for thousands of years, is a safe and often effective medical treatment that can be used to manage side effects from cancer.
Conditions for which acupuncture is commonly used include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain
- Neuropathy
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
- Bowel & digestion issues
- Hot flashes
- Fatigue
How Does Acupuncture Work?
As part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), acupuncture is based on the ancient belief that energy flows through the body in channels known as meridians. This energy is also referred to as Qi (pronounced chee).
According to the theory, a block in the meridians can deny the muscles and surrounding tissues of Qi, creating an imbalance of health. However, the flow of Qi can be restored by inserting needles at specific acupuncture points. With restored Qi, imbalances in absorption of nutrients and circulation of blood and fluids to the body’s organs can be corrected. Acupuncture should only be performed by a qualified and licensed acupuncturist..
Acupuncture has been studied, and scientists believe that stimulating specific acupuncture points causes the release of certain chemicals. These chemicals naturally stimulate the body’s regulating systems, improving the biochemical imbalance to promote well-being.
About Your Visit
Before we can schedule your first appointment, please contact your primary MD Anderson oncologist and request he or she send a consult-online approving you to have acupuncture.
Services are by appointment and limited to MD Anderson patients.
If you choose to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider after your visit, please ask us for a center visit record. For additional details or to make an appointment, please call us at 713-794-4700.
Request an Appointment
The Integrative Medicine Center and its services are available to all current MD Anderson patients.
To request an appointment:
- Call 713-794-4700
- Ask your MD Anderson physician or nurse to submit an internal consult
- What to expect at your first appointment