Oncology Acupuncture
I have taken part in specialised oncology acupuncture training and bring a unique perspective to my practice as a cancer patient. With lived experience, I truly understand the emotional and physical challenges that cancer patients face.
Acupuncture offers valuable support during cancer treatment by helping manage a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including mood swings, depression, hot flushes, pain, and nausea. By promoting relaxation, improving energy levels, and supporting the body’s natural processes, oncology acupuncture may make a significant difference in the overall wellbeing of those undergoing cancer treatment, providing a sense of relief and comfort during a difficult time.
I decided to study acupuncture after receiving treatment from a BAcC member post-chemotherapy. The profound response I experienced after a few months of acupuncture sparked a realisation that I wanted to retrain as a TCM Acupuncturist.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, aged 30, and started training at the NCA in September 2020. Many of the lectures were online due to the pandemic, however, with determination, I was awarded a BSc degree in Acupuncture with First Class Honours in 2024.
Acupuncture and cancer care articles and published papers
Acupuncture in cancer care: recommendations for safe practice (peer-reviewed expert opinion)
Beverly de Valols et al, Supportive Care in cancer (2024)
Acupuncture in the real world: evaluating a 15-year NADA auricular acupuncture service for breast cancer survivors experiencing hot flushes and night sweats as a consequence of adjuvant hormonal therapies.
Support Care Cancer. 2022 Feb 26;30(6):5063–5074. doi: 10.1007/s00520-022-06898-7
de Valois B, Young T, Thorpe P, Preston J, Degun T, Corbishley K.
Improving wellbeing of prostate cancer survivors using the NADA acupuncture protocol: a clinical outcome study.
Medical Acupuncture; 27(3) 194-205. de Valois B, Young T, Thorpe P, Preston J, Degun T (2015)
Using the NADA protocol to improve wellbeing of prostate cancer survivors: five case studies.
European Journal of Oriental Medicine; 8(1) 8-18. de Valois B, Degun T (2015)
NADA ear acupuncture for breast cancer treatment-related hot flashes and night sweats: an observational study.
Medical Acupuncture. 24(4): 256-268 doi:10.1089/acu.2012.089. de Valois B, Young TE, Robinson N, McCourt C, Maher EJ (2012)
In 2018, The Chronicle Newspaper published an article about my Henna Crown.
“See the henna crown chemo patients are getting”
“Breast cancer sufferer Claire Watkins, of Consett, got the henna art work on her head from Samina Karim, from Sunderland
Looking in the mirror, breast cancer sufferer Claire Watkins remembers when she had hair.
Relying on a wig to go outside, she hides her baldness underneath. But now the 30-year-old feels “pretty again” after being given a henna crown and is turning heads with her new style. “It makes me feel pretty, it’s so detailed, it’s so beautiful,” said Claire, of Consett, County Durham.”
“This henna crown is amazing. You get so used to looking at yourself in the mirror with no hair but this means there is something there again. It’s so detailed and beautiful and I love it.”
Claire Watkins, Chronicle, September 2018
Useful links
If you or a loved one requires help regarding a cancer diagnosis, and would like to speak to someone, please visit Macmillan.
If you would like in-person support, several Maggie’s Centres are located across the UK. These centres are a home from home and provide expert care and support, in person, with welcoming faces and a space for tea and coffee.
For cancer support and information, please visit Cancer Research UK which has links to many other supportive organisations.