A cancer diagnosis changes so much — physically, emotionally, and practically. For many people, pain becomes part of the journey. It may be caused by the cancer itself, surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone treatments, or ongoing inflammation and nerve sensitivity.
At our clinic, we believe pain relief should be compassionate, evidence-informed, and integrated with your medical care. Acupuncture is increasingly recognised in the UK as a supportive therapy for people living with and beyond cancer.
Understanding Cancer-Related Pain
Cancer pain can arise from:
- Tumours pressing on nerves, bones, or organs
- Post-surgical recovery
- Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)
- Radiotherapy-related tissue changes
- Aromatase inhibitor–related joint pain
- Muscle tension and inflammation
Research suggests that around 30–50% of people undergoing active cancer treatment experience pain, and this can rise to 70% or more in advanced cancer. While pain medication is often essential, some patients experience side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, or nausea — and many are looking for additional, non-drug support.
Acupuncture in Modern Cancer Care
Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body. Modern research suggests it works by:
- Stimulating the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers)
- Modulating pain signals in the brain and spinal cord
- Improving circulation
- Reducing inflammation
- Calming the nervous system
In the UK, acupuncture is offered in some NHS pain clinics and cancer support centres, and is also available privately through qualified practitioners. Organisations such as Macmillan Cancer Support provide information about complementary therapies, including acupuncture, for symptom management.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) already recommends acupuncture for certain chronic pain conditions such as tension-type headaches and migraines, reflecting growing recognition of its role in pain management more broadly.
What Does the Research Show?
The evidence base for acupuncture in cancer care has expanded significantly over the past 20 years.
- Cancer-Related Pain
A major meta-analysis published in JAMA Oncology (2017), which reviewed data from nearly 20,000 patients with chronic pain, found that acupuncture was significantly more effective than usual care or sham acupuncture for pain relief. Cancer-related pain was included among the conditions studied.
- Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
CIPN can cause numbness, tingling, burning, or shooting pain in the hands and feet. Small clinical trials suggest acupuncture may reduce neuropathy severity and improve nerve function scores. While more large-scale studies are needed, early findings are promising.
- Aromatase Inhibitor–Related Joint Pain
Joint pain is a common side effect for people taking aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer. A large randomised clinical trial published in JAMA found that true acupuncture significantly reduced joint pain compared to sham treatment and no treatment groups.
- Reduced Pain Scores and Medication Use
Some studies indicate that patients receiving acupuncture report lower pain scores and, in some cases, reduced reliance on additional analgesics. Acupuncture is not a replacement for oncology care, but it may complement medical treatment.
The National Cancer Research Institute supports ongoing research into symptom management and quality of life for people living with cancer, including integrative approaches.
Is Acupuncture Safe During Cancer Treatment?
Safety is paramount.
When delivered by a properly trained, insured, and regulated acupuncturist, acupuncture is generally considered safe during and after cancer treatment. Treatment is adapted carefully depending on:
- Blood counts (including neutrophils and platelets)
- Risk of lymphoedema
- Surgical or radiotherapy sites
- Fatigue levels
- Overall immune status
Communication with your oncology team is always encouraged, and acupuncture is provided as a complementary therapy — not an alternative to conventional treatment.
Beyond Pain Relief
Although this article focuses on pain, many people also report additional benefits, such as:
- Better sleep
- Reduced anxiety
- Improved mood
- Relief from nausea
- A greater sense of calm and balance
Cancer care is about more than treating disease — it’s about supporting the whole person.
A Compassionate, Whole-Person Approach
Living with cancer can feel overwhelming. Acupuncture offers a gentle, personalised way to support your body alongside medical treatment. Each session is tailored to your diagnosis, treatment stage, and energy levels. Many patients describe treatments as deeply relaxing and restorative.
If you are living with cancer-related pain and would like to explore whether acupuncture could support you, we would be honoured to work alongside your medical team and be part of your wider circle of care.
Your comfort matters, your wellbeing matters, and you deserve thoughtful, compassionate support every step of the way.