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Acupuncture is a type of traditional Chinese medicine that involves stimulating specific points on the body with fine needles, mild electric currents, or heat.
A 2018 study found that acupuncture slightly reduced joint pain caused by a type of breast cancer drug called aromatase inhibitors. This therapy may also improve chemotherapy side effects like nausea and vomiting.
Because there is a slight risk of infection, it’s important to see a licensed acupuncturist who uses sterile needles.
Massage
A gentle massage may ease pain and anxiety in people with cancer.
An early study from 2018 also found massage provided by licensed massage therapists to be helpful for relieving cancer-related fatigue. Another systematic review from 2021 found similar results.
Massage is generally considered to be safe, but it’s best to avoid options like deep-tissue massage. You should also avoid massaging areas that have been treated with radiation.
Mindfulness focuses the mind to produce a state of calm.
A 2018 review found a mindfulness-based practice helpful for reducing breast cancer symptoms such as depression and fatigue. Mindfulness might also be useful for relieving the brain fog that can sometimes happen after chemotherapy treatment.
Another 2022 review found that mindfulness-based stress reduction practices can help improve stress, anxiety, and depression in breast cancer survivors.
Yoga is a mind-body practice that combines strengthening, deep breathing, and meditation.
Research reviews from 2021 and 2018 found that yoga improved physical and mental quality of life, sleep, fatigue, pain, depression, and menopause symptoms in those with breast cancer. This practice may also prevent unwanted weight gain during breast cancer treatment.
Practicing yoga for 20–60 minutes at a time over 1–6 months appears to be most helpful for relieving symptoms.
Yoga
Mindfulness and meditation
Breast Cancer
Complementary Health Toolkit
Yoga
Mindfulness and meditation
Massage
Acupuncture
Acupuncture
