So there has always been a question if it was a good idea to use acupuncture on cancer patients either human or animal, as there was/is a theory that acupuncture may strengthen the cancer cells . This study addresses that and not only does acupuncture help strengthen immune system it appears that it may even help the body fight off the cancer cells. Granted this is just one study but hopefully there will be many more as this would be a great non invasive option to help in the fight against Cancer.
New research confirms that acupuncture benefits the immune system and improves the psychological state for these patients. Blood samples prove that acupuncture enhances the immune system’s NK (natural killer) cells .
The research team commented that NK cells are “a first line of defense against the metastatic spread of tumor cells.” Data shows that decreases in NK cell numbers and activity correspond to the progression of cancer. NK cells are immune system lymphocytes that are part of bodily responses to pathological concerns including tumors and virally infected cells. The new study shows that acupuncture benefits NK cell numbers thereby supporting the immune system.
Chemo can be tough on the body and the immune system so the points from the study will support the immune system and help with nausea and fatigue. Always check with your vet to make sure they are ok with other modalities and/ or find a vet who is trained in TCM and acupuncture to add to your team.
Points to try…
Front Legs
LI4 Is on the medial side between the dew claw and 2nd metacarpal bone if no dew claw where the dew claw would be
LU 7 Inside of the front leg just above the crease in the wrist
PE5 Inside of the forelimb about 4 cun* above the crease in the wrist
TH5 On the outside of the forelimb about 2 cun* above the wrist
Back Legs
ST 36 Find the front of the knee and slide your finger down into the little groove on the lateral side of each knee
SP9 Inside of the leg a bit below the knee ( in the depression of the caudal border of the tibia and the gastrocnemius muscle
GB39 3 cun above the lateral malleolus or ankle bone
LIV3 Between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal bone
Cun “small measurement” the find the distance between the wrist and the elbow put your finger there; half that distance half it again and half it again, The distance between your finger and the wrist is 1 cun so it will be a personal measurement for each animal