Canine Cancer 09/14/2009
 
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Is acupuncture ever used to treat canine cancer?

In the US, Chinese medicine is mostly used with the intention of aiding a pet through treatment.  Often symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dry-mouth and more can be severe enough to require treatments to be discontinued.  Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are very effective at easing these symptoms, allowing a pet to finish their course of treatments.  On the other hand, in Chinese medicine, every patient is treated as a whole.  Cancer cannot be ignored, as it is part of the pet’s health picture, and so it will always be addressed. 

As far as Chinese medicine being used exclusively to treat cancer in pets- this is a gray area.

In China, Chinese medicine is often used as the sole treatment for cancer (as well as many other diseases) with reportedly very positive results.  However, as far as research goes, there have been no reputable studies done to observe the outcomes of Chinese-medicine-only cancer treatments.

In the US, Chinese medicine is usually seen as an adjunctive therapy; one to be used in conjunction with biomedical treatments, so the research that exists comes from the viewpoint of “how can Chinese medicine assist with or ease the side effects of biomedical treatments?”  We just haven’t looked at the ability of Chinese medicine to treat cancer directly.

In reality, cancer, in pets, is often not discovered until it is advanced because they are masters at hiding discomfort, and thus, disease.  At this point, there usually isn’t enough time to let Chinese medicine work.  If the pet’s owner decides to go through with biomedical treatments, Chinese medicine can ease the side effects associated with chemo and radiation.  If the pet’s owner decides not to go through with biomedical treatments, Chinese medicine can help make the pet comfortable and perhaps slow the progression of the disease, giving them more symptom-free time.

 
 

You're sitting in the doctor's office and they've just said it. The "C" word. Cancer. How can a single word represent such a devastating and life-altering diagnosis?

I want you to know that your acupuncturist is there to help get you through this incredibly difficult time in your life. Cancer treatments are often radical and rarely without extreme side effects. It's not uncommon for someone with cancer to be unable to even get through these potentially life-saving treatments because they can be so harsh. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help you get through your biomedical treatments by reducing such side effects as nausea, dry-mouth, decreased energy and so many more.

I've had people ask if it's safe to do acupuncture while someone is going through cancer treatments. The answer is yes. Acupuncture alone will not interfere with radiation or chemotherapy.

When it comes to Chinese herbal medicine, the answer is a little more gray. To be honest, there isn't enough research on Chinese herbal medicine, particularly in combination with chemo or radiation to make a statement. It is thought that some herbs may interfere with radiation treatments. The most important thing is to ask your oncologist what they feel comfortable with. Feel free to have them speak with your acupuncturist about Chinese herbs and the potential for interactions as well as relief from side effects.

If you or a loved one has just been diagnosed, give yourself the best shot at survival and recovery. Consider acupuncture and Chinese medicine to help get you through your cancer treatments.