The purpose of this study is to determine whether acupuncture therapy reduces neck and shoulder pain in patients who have undergone neck dissection surgery for the treatment of head and neck cancer.

Neck dissection is a common procedure for the treatment of head and neck cancer; unfortunately, patients often suffer from neck and shoulder pain following the procedure. Standard care for neck dissection pain consists of physical therapy exercises and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Studies suggest that acupuncture may relieve pain caused by neck dissection. This study will determine the effectiveness of acupuncture therapy in relieving the pain of neck dissection patients.

Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to receive either acupuncture treatments once a week for 4 weeks or standard care. Self-report questionnaires and scales that measure pain, level of functioning, and overall quality of life will be used to assess participants. Participants assigned to the standard care group will be offered four treatments of acupuncture at the end of the study.

Genders Eligible for Study:  Both

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neck dissection for head and/or neck cancer at least 3 months prior to study entry
• Moderate to severe pain and/or dysfunction in the neck and/or shoulders due to neck dissection
• Radiotherapy treatment at least 3 months prior to study entry

Exclusion Criteria:

• Acupuncture 6 weeks prior to study entry