Update on acupuncture study
A year ago we reported the exciting news that Dr Beverley de Valois of our Supportive Oncology Research Team had been awarded a grant for a project looking at the use of acupuncture and moxibustion for promoting wellbeing and improving quality of life in patients with secondary lymphoedema. The grant comes from the National Institute for Health Research and is part of a funding programme for innovative projects.
Lymphoedema can be a distressing side effect of treatment for some cancers and there is currently no known cure although it can be managed.
In June, focus groups were held to gather information about the problems experienced by people with lymphoedema and to see how they would feel about acupuncture and moxibustion to address these.
Beverley restricted the initial study to patients with breast or head, neck and throat cancers. She also ran focus groups with healthcare professionals responsible for treating people with lymphoedema. The response was extremely positive.
The clinical phase of the study started in the autumn with acupuncturist Rachel Peckham joining the team. Patients under the care of the lymphoedema service at Mount Vernon Hospital are invited to have a course of seven acupuncture treatments with the option of a further six treatments. The aim is to improve overall wellbeing, rather than to treat the lymphoedema itself.
Most of the participants have opted for both courses of treatment and have reported improved wellbeing and an increase in energy. Other symptoms such as pain, discomfort and anxiety are alleviated.
With such positive feedback, we successfully applied for an extension to the study, enabling us to recruit more participants.
If you are interested in taking part, please contact Beverley at the LJMC (01923 844014)*. This study is open to patients who have lymphoedema as a result of breast cancer or head, neck and throat cancer and who are under the care of the lymphoedema service at Mount Vernon Hospital.
If a fear of needles is holding you back, you may be relieved to learn that even our most nervous participants have reported that they found the sessions enjoyable and relaxing.
*Please note: recruitment closed in May 2009
Last updated: 23 July, 2009
Published February 2009