Mayo Clinic Seeks Women with Noncyclical Breast Pain for Research Study

Monday, October 20, 2003

Mayo Clinic seeks female volunteers over the age of 18 with breast pain to participate in a research study which seeks to determine if acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for noncyclical breast pain.

Acupuncture has been a part of traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is based on the premise that health depends on a vital bodily energy called qi (pronounced "chee") that flows through the body along 14 pathways called meridians. The Eastern philosophy says that inserting needles into points along the meridians unblocks the energy flow and restores the body's healthy balance.

Noncyclical breast pain isn't associated with hormonal changes occurring during the menstrual cycle and can occur at any age. It is often linked to benign breast problems such as fluid-filled cysts, musculoskeletal causes, medications or dietary sources. Women with noncyclical breast pain often describe a pulling or stabbing pain that lasts for a time and disappears. The pain may occur in one or both breasts and often extends into the armpit.

Women will be asked to complete three lifestyle questionnaires and will have a preliminary interview with a clinical nurse specialist to determine eligibility. Qualified participants will receive acupuncture twice a week for two weeks, totaling four treatments. The number of needles may vary and no needle will be inserted directly into the breasts. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires during the course of treatment and at the end of the study. Acupuncture performed by a trained professional is considered a safe, low-risk procedure. However, side effects from this study could include dizziness, nausea or fainting during treatment. Pain, bruising or rarely infection at the site of the needle stick also could occur.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to call Lori Thicke, R.N., at 507-284-2772.

Contact:
Richard D. Hurt, Jr.
507-266-2166 (days)
507-284-2511 (evenings)
e-mail: newsbureau@mayo.edu

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