Using acupuncture to treat pain from chemotherapy-induced nerve damage

Acupuncture for Chemothrapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy Treatment (ACT) Trial

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10745311

This study is looking at whether acupuncture can help relieve the painful nerve issues that some cancer survivors experience after chemotherapy, and it's for those who are dealing with moderate to severe pain from this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR37 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10745311 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of acupuncture as a treatment for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), a painful condition that affects many cancer survivors. The study will involve a randomized trial with three groups, including one receiving acupuncture, one receiving sham acupuncture, and a control group receiving usual care. Participants will undergo eight weeks of treatment, and the research aims to assess improvements in pain levels and sensory nerve function. By focusing on cancer patients experiencing moderate to severe CIPN pain, the study seeks to enhance their quality of life and functional abilities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer survivors experiencing moderate to severe pain due to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy or those with mild symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a non-pharmacological treatment option for alleviating pain and improving quality of life for cancer survivors suffering from CIPN.

How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown promising results for acupuncture in reducing CIPN pain, indicating potential for success in this larger trial.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.