Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Personalized, Evidence-Informed Support During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy may cause side effects that affect comfort, energy, sleep, appetite, and overall quality of life.

At Spring Oriental Medicine, we provide personalized acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for patients in Chicago, Park Ridge, and surrounding communities to help manage treatment-related symptoms, improve overall well-being, and complement your cancer care.

Common Treatment-Related Symptoms

Depending on the type of cancer treatment, patients may experience:

  • Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
  • Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)
  • Joint pain associated with hormone therapy
  • Cancer-related fatigue
  • Hot flashes
  • Dry mouth following radiation therapy
  • Pain after surgery
  • Insomnia or poor sleep
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Digestive discomfort

Our Personalized Approach

Acupuncture may help:

  • Reduce nausea and treatment-related discomfort
  • Relieve pain
  • Support energy and sleep
  • Promote relaxation
  • Improve overall well-being

Your first visit includes a comprehensive consultation to understand your diagnosis, treatment history, current symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. We also perform a Traditional Chinese Medicine assessment.

Depending on your needs, treatment may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine when appropriate, lifestyle and dietary recommendations, and self-care strategies.

Learn more about Acupuncture for Cancer Care & Recovery →

Learn more about Integrative Medicine Consultation →

What the Research Suggests

A growing body of research supports acupuncture as a complementary approach for managing selected cancer treatment side effects. Clinical guidelines, including those from ASCO and NCCN, recommend acupuncture for certain symptoms associated with cancer treatment, including chemotherapy-induced nausea, aromatase inhibitor-associated joint pain, and cancer-related fatigue.

Learn more on our Research & Evidence page →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is acupuncture safe during chemotherapy?

For many people, acupuncture can be safely incorporated during chemotherapy when performed by a licensed acupuncturist experienced in supportive cancer care. Treatment is individualized based on your blood counts, treatment schedule, medications, and overall health.

Can I receive acupuncture during other cancer treatments?

Acupuncture may be used alongside radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and after surgery. Your treatment plan is coordinated with your cancer care and adjusted according to your symptoms and medical condition.

Can acupuncture interfere with my cancer treatment?

Acupuncture is intended to complement—not replace—your medical treatment. We work alongside your oncology team and take your cancer treatment schedule and overall health into consideration.

Why Choose Spring Oriental Medicine?

Dr. Ali Zhang combines the perspectives of a physician (MD), licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac., DAOM), and biomedical researcher, with previous clinical experience in oncology.

With training in both conventional medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine, we provide compassionate, evidence-informed supportive care tailored to each patient's needs.

Our goal is to help relieve symptoms, improve function, and support your overall well-being throughout your cancer treatment journey.

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Better During Treatment

Cancer treatment affects every person differently. If you're experiencing treatment-related side effects and looking for additional support, we're here to help.

Schedule an Appointment to discuss your personalized treatment plan.

Schedule an Appointment