October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when communities worldwide unite to educate, support, and advocate for those affected by this disease. While medical advances continue to improve treatment outcomes, many patients and survivors are exploring complementary therapies to enhance their quality of life. Among these approaches, acupuncture has emerged as a valuable supportive treatment that addresses many challenges associated with breast cancer and its conventional treatments.
Understanding Acupuncture’s Role
Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine practiced for over 3,000 years, involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points on the body. For breast cancer patients, this ancient practice offers a gentle, non-pharmaceutical approach to managing treatment-related side effects and supporting overall well-being.
Research has validated acupuncture’s effectiveness in cancer care. The National Cancer Institute and major cancer centers recognize acupuncture as a beneficial complementary therapy, with studies demonstrating its ability to alleviate common treatment complications without interfering with primary medical care.
Managing Treatment Side Effects
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy often bring challenging side effects that significantly impact daily life. Acupuncture has shown success in addressing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, peripheral neuropathy causing tingling and numbness, cancer-related fatigue, and hormonal hot flashes. Treatment sessions provide relief when conventional medications fall short, helping restore nerve function, improve energy levels, and reduce symptom severity.
Beyond physical symptoms, breast cancer affects emotional health. Acupuncture promotes relaxation and emotional balance, with patients reporting improved mood and better stress management capabilities.
Expert Care from Qualified
Practitioners
Dr. Leila Motta, D.O.M, AP, Dipl. O.M., ADS., exemplifies the expertise needed for cancer supportive care. As a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and board-
certified licensed acupuncture physician, Dr. Motta graduated from Maryland University of Integrative Health with both Masters and Doctoral degrees in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.
Dr. Motta holds Diplomate Certification from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM), maintains a Florida state license, and is a Nationally Board-Certified Acupuncturist. Her specialization in Neuro Acupuncture through the Neuro Acupuncture Institute adds advanced expertise. She is also a certified Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist.
With over 15 years in healthcare, Dr. Motta specializes in pain management and primary care. Her diverse skillset effectively treats chronic and acute pain, stress including PTSD, headaches, anxiety, digestive issues, and other health concerns. She integrates therapeutic techniques including acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping therapy, and light therapy.
Integrative Healthcare Approach
Dr. Larry Wallen brings a holistic chiropractic perspective to comprehensive cancer support. A Midwest native from Illinois, Dr. Wallen’s passion for helping people developed after witnessing his father’s unsuccessful surgeries for chronic neck and back pain. His own positive experience with chiropractic care revealed a natural approach to addressing root causes rather than masking symptoms.
Dr. Wallen graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign with a Bachelor’s Degree in Integrative Biology before attending Palmer College of Chiropractic. He graduated in 2010 with highest honors including Pi Tau Delta Chiropractic Honor Society membership, Presidential Scholar status, and Summa Cum Laude honors.
Communication between all healthcare providers ensures treatments complement rather than complicate conventional care. Most oncologists welcome discussions about complementary therapies, recognizing their potential to improve patient outcomes and quality of life throughout the cancer journey.
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