Acupuncture in the Management of Post Operative Symptoms in Breast Cancer Patients

A Randomized, Intent to Treat, Controlled Study of the Efficacy of Verum Acupuncture Compared to Sham Acupuncture in the Management of Post Operative Symptoms in Breast Cancer Subjects That Have Undergone Axillary Surgery

This study is for the woman who will have axillary (armpit) surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment. The purpose of this project is to evaluate if acupuncture is helpful to control pain and improve range of motion (arm movement). Another goal is to find out if women have an improvement in their quality of life. This study is being done in collaboration with the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female subjects
• Expected survival at least 6 months or greater
• Has had surgery with axillary dissection
• Greater than 6 nodes removed during surgery
• Greater than 21 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous mastectomy
• Double mastectomy at the time of current axillary surgery
• Any diagnoses of autoimmune disease
• Pregnant or lactating women
• Unable to provide written informed consent
• Suspected or diagnosed fibromyalgia
• Previous shoulder injuries for the specific arm that will undergo axillary dissection
• Known or suspected drug or alcohol abuse as determined by the investigator
• Decreased range of motion (ROM) as evidenced on standard preoperative exam
• Previous acupuncture (lifetime)