ACUPUNCTURE FOR
CHEMO-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY (cipn)
Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most common side effects to cancer treatment that we help manage with comprehensive, evidence based, and individualized therapeutics. Chemotherapy drugs are designed to target rapidly dividing cells, which is a hallmark of cancer cells. Unfortunately, these drugs can also affect normal, healthy cells, leading to a range of side effects.
CIPN specifically involves damage to the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. These nerves are responsible for transmitting sensations like pain, temperature, and touch.
ACUPUNCTURE
FOR CIPN
CIPN SYMPTOMS
- Numbness and Tingling: Patients often experience a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation, accompanied by numbness in the hands and feet.
- Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pains, is a hallmark of CIPN.
- Loss of Sensation: Some individuals may notice a diminished ability to feel pressure, temperature changes, or textures, impacting their daily activities.
- Motor Skill Impairment: Weakness and difficulties with fine motor skills may arise, making tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding a utensil challenging.
- Balance and Coordination Issues: CIPN can affect the proprioceptive nerves, leading to balance problems and an increased risk of falls.
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture points are stimulated via insertion of fine needles using an essentially painless technique. By doing so, one can carefully manipulate the bio-energy (also known as “Qi”) to flow more freely and thereby restore harmony and balance in the body on an energetic and physiological level. On a more scientific level, the premise of acupuncture is in its ability to increase circulation to a specific area that is treated. Although true, this is far too primitive an explanation for the ancient healing power of one of the most dominant medical systems in the world.
HOW DO I KNOW IF ACUPUNCTURE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Your Naturopathic Physician will determine if acupuncture is appropriate for you after an initial visit and through assessment of your health has been completed. Our goal is to provide the most comprehensive and effective treatment plan for our patients. If acupuncture is a consideration for your care, your naturopathic physician will determine the frequency and duration of treatment. If there are other treatment options that may be more suitable to your condition and will provide better outcomes, we will inform you of your options and collaborate with you on making the best decisions for your treatment plan.
