Acupuncture

gardengypsy

Since completing treatment last summer, I have experienced a very serious symptom cluster. Chemo, radiation and Tamoxifen have brought on everything from peripheral neuropathy, brain fog to depression.

Has anyone ever used acupuncture for SEs? If so, what were the results?

I am also interested in any other alternative/complementary medicine and therapies you can recommend. Because I am highly estrogen positive, certain herbs and supplements are not an option.

Best wishes to all,

gardengypsy

proudtospin

I have done accupuncture for back pain. It did not help but rather was relaxing in the manner of a nice massage. I do both for the relaxation as well as facials, anything to relax

Momine

My mom had acupuncture in connection with her cancer treatment, and it seemed to help her. In my own case, persistent exercise helped me recover from the various treatment after-effects. I also took care to eat well, lots of fibre, fish, nuts and veggies. For the brain fog, I played games: Sudoku and Candy Crush mostly. It may sound silly, but it is good brain gymnastics and not too taxing at the same time. Finally I strove and strive to do things I enjoy. I find it helpful. If I am going to do something I really want to do, I am more motivated to overlook the achy feet or whatever might be bothering me.

gardengypsy

Thanks, Momine and Proud to Spin.

I'm 5 months out of treatment and I feel like I am not recovering at all. Perhaps it's early yet and I have to be more patient..

meg2016

I did acupuncture during chemo for neuropathy as I developed it quickly and it was worsening through treatment. The acupuncture absolutely helped as the neuropathy started improving even while I was still having chemo treatments. It helped several of my other side effects as well. My insurance paid for it also. It is definitely worth trying!

gardengypsy

Meg~ I am so glad to hear that it worked for you. And your insurance paid for it? That's fabulous. I don't think mine covers it, but I will check today. And if it is not covered, I am still planning on trying it. ((Thank you.))

Momine

Gypsy, it can be a slog and it does take time. The trick is to keep plugging at it. I think it took a full year before I felt half-way normal again, but it WILL happen. Also, there may be lingering effects that you can't get rid of. I still have some numbness in a couple of fingertips. I still have to remember to stretch my arms. But our bodies always change. On the plus side, the fact that I have been much more consistent about exercise means that my otherwise terrible back is giving me almost no trouble. In other words, try not to focus on getting back to exactly how you was before and focus instead on moving forward.

gardengypsy

Momine~

Thanks for the positive note. It's nice to hear from someone who can say they see progress towards their well being.

Yes, it is time to move forward. On some days the hard work, pain and exhaustion brings me too far down and I haven't the energy to work on my self. I've changed so much and I miss the old me..I was so energetic...