Acupuncture (definition of)

Malignant mesothelioma is a relatively rare, but deadly form of cancer that affects the lubricative layer between the inner wall of the chest and abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) and the outer surfaces of the internal organs. This layer is known as the mesothelium.

Like most types of mesothelioma cancer, patients are treated with some combination of surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. However, many patients seek out alternative treatments.

Acupuncture, known in Standard Mandarin Chinese as zhen bian or zhen jiu, is an ancient technique that involves the insertion and manipulation of very fine needles into specific spots on the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medical Theory, these points are located on "meridians," or paths of vital energy known as qi. The purpose is to correct the imbalance of energy and open up paths that may be blocked.

While acupuncture is useless for treating the disease itself, many mesothelioma patients have experienced relief from associated pain as well as side effects of radiation and chemotherapy treatments.