Before the first needle
Precautions, and what I do about each
Acupuncture alongside your oncology care carries risks that are different from the usual ones. I ask about each of these at every visit, and I change what I do to fit.
Low blood counts
When your white cells, platelets or red cells are low, needles carry more risk of infection or bleeding.
Tell me the date and the numbers of your latest blood work
I may use touch and ear seeds instead of needles, or ask you to wait
A fever or chills: call your oncology team's number, not me
Blood thinners and easy bruising
Aspirin, warfarin and other blood thinners raise the chance of bleeding or a bruise at a needle site.
Tell me everything you take, including aspirin and supplements
I use fewer, finer needles and hold pressure afterward
I skip needles when your oncology team asks me to
Lymph node removal
After lymph nodes are removed or treated with radiation, the arm or leg on that side can swell more easily.
Tell me which side and when
No needles, cups or blood pressure cuffs on that limb unless your surgeon or oncologist says otherwise
I use touch on the other side and elsewhere
Ports, lines and pumps
A port, a PICC line or a pump is a path into your bloodstream, so I stay well away from it.
Tell me where yours is and what kind
No needles or firm pressure near the site
I wait if it is red, sore or newly placed
Fatigue and timing
Treatment can leave you drained, and a long visit can cost more than it gives.
Visits are short, and I plan them around your infusion and radiation days
Bring someone to drive if you can
Cancel any time you are unwell: no explanation needed
Skin that was radiated or is healing
Skin in a radiation field, a surgical scar or an open area needs time.
No needles, cups or firm pressure there
Tell me where the field was and what your team has said
I work elsewhere: hands, feet, ears and shoulders
- A fever of 100.4°F or higher, chills, bleeding that won't stop or new shortness of breath needs your oncology team's number now. For an emergency, call 911.
Bring or send
A short list that makes the first visit easier
You don't have to remember it all. A few lines are enough, and you can send them by text or bring them on paper. I keep them private and share them only with your oncology team, with your written permission.
What helps
The date of your last blood work and the numbers, if you have them
Your treatment dates: infusion, radiation, surgery
Blood thinners, aspirin and every other medicine and supplement
Which side had lymph nodes removed, and where your port or line is
Questions before you book?
Tell me where you are in treatment and I will tell you what I would do differently.