Can Acupuncture Reduce Cancer-Related Pain?

Cancer-related pain is one of the most challenging parts of a diagnosis. For many patients, pain persists during and sometimes even after treatment.

While medications are usually integral to cancer pain management, many people find complementary approaches like acupuncture provide comfort without adding to the burden of side effects. 

Kierstin Beaman, DACM, at Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture in Coon Rapids, offers acupuncture treatments for cancer patients that may help reduce the side effects of cancer therapies, support healthy circulation, and enhance the body’s response to standard cancer treatments. 

Read on to learn more about acupuncture’s effectiveness when it comes to easing cancer pain. 

Understanding cancer-related pain

Pain associated with cancer can be a result of several factors. Tumors may press on nerves or organs, treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can irritate tissues, and surgery can leave lingering discomfort. 

Nerve pain (neuropathy), joint stiffness, inflammation, and fatigue often also occur, creating a complicated situation that isn’t easily resolved with medications or rest.

How acupuncture works

Acupuncture originates in traditional Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of very thin needles into specific points on the body. From an integrative medicine perspective, acupuncture stimulates the nervous system. It encourages the release of endorphins, improves circulation, and reduces inflammation. 

Acupuncture also helps regulate your body’s stress response. 

These effects can work together to decrease pain perception and improve overall comfort.

Scientific support for acupuncture

A large literature review supports acupuncture as a helpful adjunct therapy for cancer-related pain. Research shows acupuncture may significantly reduce aromatase inhibitor–related joint pain in breast cancer patients, with growing evidence supporting benefits for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and broader chronic pain conditions. 

Major organizations such as the National Cancer Institute and the American Society of Clinical Oncology recognize acupuncture as a supportive therapy that may help manage symptoms when used alongside standard care.

Benefits in addition to pain relief

One of acupuncture’s strengths is its ability to address the whole person, not just individual symptoms. Many people who undergo acupuncture experience life improvements, including better sleep, reduced anxiety and stress, improved energy, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being. 

If you’re dealing with cancer, these shifts can make a very real difference in your day-to-day quality of life.

Acupuncture safety

When performed by a licensed and experienced practitioner like Dr. Beaman, who has experience with oncology care, acupuncture is quite safe. She takes great care to customize treatments for you, taking into account factors such as immune status, platelet counts, and your overall treatment plan.

Dr. Beaman also collaborates with your oncology team to ensure your care is coordinated, supportive, and aligned with your medical needs.

Acupuncture complements your cancer care

It’s important to understand that acupuncture is not a cure for cancer, and it’s not a substitute for conventional treatments. It serves as a complementary therapy. Dr. Beaman offers it to help ease discomfort, support resilience, and improve quality of life throughout your cancer journey.

If you or a loved one is experiencing cancer-related pain, exploring integrative options like acupuncture may provide you with greater comfort, balance, and well-being. Call Minnesota Integrative Medicine & Acupuncture at 651-964-3868, or book an appointment online today to set up a consultation.