New evidence suggests that acupuncture may help relieve lymphedema of the arm, an accumulation of fluid that can occur after lymph nodes are removed during surgery, and a condition that frequently follows a radical mastectomy for breast cancer.
A study at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City showed that acupuncture for lymphedema is safe and well-tolerated. Participating patients had acupuncture twice a week for four weeks. Of the 33 patients taking part in the study, 11 had a significant reduction in swelling of the affected arm and another 18 had at least a small reduction. Several weeks after their acupuncture sessions, patients said they saw lasting improvement in alleviating swelling.