Cancer Support Acupuncture Treatment in Clearwater, FL
Most cancer patients in West Florida are never told that acupuncture is a guideline-endorsed option for the symptoms that steal the day — chemo-induced nausea, peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, hot flashes, and insomnia. We coordinate with your oncology team at Moffitt, AdventHealth, BayCare, or Florida Cancer Specialists.
What we treat
Symptoms of Cancer Support Acupuncture
- Chemo-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV)
- Chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN)
- Cancer-related fatigue (during and after treatment)
- Hot flashes from aromatase inhibitors or surgical menopause
- Insomnia and anxiety during treatment
- Loss of appetite, chemo brain, mouth pain
The gap
Why Conventional Treatments Often Fall Short
Anti-nausea drugs help but don't always cover breakthrough symptoms. Gabapentin for CIPN trades nerve pain for grogginess. There is often 'nothing else to offer' for the survivor still exhausted a year after NED. Acupuncture is now a Category 1 NCCN intervention for cancer-related fatigue and is endorsed by ASCO for chemo nausea, hot flashes, and pain.
Our approach
How Acupuncture of West Florida Treats Cancer Support Acupuncture
- Oncology-aware protocols — sterile technique, port-aware, count-aware
- Coordinated with your oncology team's schedule
- Acupressure home protocols you can use on chemo days
- Survivorship plan for fatigue, sleep, energy after treatment ends
The research
Evidence & Guidelines
ASCO and NCI endorse acupuncture for chemo-induced nausea/vomiting (CINV) and aromatase-inhibitor joint pain. NCCN lists acupuncture as a Category 1 intervention for cancer-related fatigue. Bao 2020 (JAMA Oncology) RCT shows acupuncture reduces chemo-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Real results
Patient Success Story
"I was told the fatigue was just part of survivorship. Twelve weeks with Dr. Kim, and I'm back at the gym three days a week."
Your first visit
What to Expect on Your First Visit
- 1Oncology intake — diagnosis, current treatment phase, medications, port location
- 2Discussion with your oncology team if helpful
- 3Gentle first treatment timed to your chemo cycle
- 4Symptom-tracking plan you can share with your oncologist
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acupuncture safe during chemotherapy?+
Yes, with an oncology-aware practitioner. We use sterile single-use needles, avoid the limb of any lymph-node dissection, work around your port, and time treatments to your nadir. ASCO, NCCN, and NCI all endorse acupuncture as an integrative part of cancer care.
Will my oncologist approve?+
Most do — and many actively refer. We're happy to send a brief letter to your oncology team describing the protocol so they can document it in your chart.
Does acupuncture hurt?+
Most patients describe a mild dull ache or warmth at the point — nothing like a hypodermic needle. Acupuncture needles are hair-thin (about 40x thinner than a vaccine needle), and most people relax deeply during the session.
How many sessions will I need?+
Most patients feel measurable change within 3–6 sessions. Chronic or complex conditions typically follow a 6–12 session plan, after which we transition to maintenance care. Dr. Kim builds a clear, written plan during your free consultation.
Do you accept insurance?+
We don't take insurance — Acupuncture of West Florida is a self-pay practice. We do provide a superbill after your visit that some insurance providers will accept for out-of-network reimbursement, and HSA/FSA cards are accepted. We also offer a Give $25 / Get $25 referral credit to keep care affordable.
Ready to feel better — naturally?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP. We'll listen to what's going on and tell you honestly whether acupuncture can help.
Ready to feel better — naturally?
Book a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Kim Windschauer, AP. We'll listen to what's going on and tell you honestly whether acupuncture can help.