Pain Relief for Cancer

Those who suffer from cancer can have pain almost anywhere. Between medical testing, tumor pain, compression on the spinal cord and any number of treatments, the discomfort felt by cancer patients can be moderate to severe. Any oncologist will agree that pain management is just as much a part of cancer treatment as tumor-cell eradication. Palliative care, the treatment of pain and symptoms from serious illness, is typically provided by a team of doctors, nurses and social workers.

Medications

• Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen (NSAIDs) are the first line of defense against pain. There are few serious side effects to taking these medications. They're used to reduce pain and inflammation.
  Prescription opiates like codeine, morphine and Oxycodone are used for more severe pain. These medications are safe when used as directed.
  Some antidepressants are prescribed to relieve symptoms of nerve damage, such as tingling and burning pain. Nerve damage is sometimes caused by radiation, surgery or chemotherapy.

Alternative Treatments

• A form of Chinese medicine, acupuncture involves inserting a thin, metal needle at certain points of the body. The goal is to change energy flow in the body, allowing it to heal itself. The needles remain in place for 15 to 30 minutes while the patient is reclined and in a relaxed state.

  Meditation is known for its relaxation properties. It can help reduce pain, stress and depression. Meditation techniques involve focusing on a word or the process of breathing while sitting or reclining in a comfortable position. It's important to try to have a positive attitude and keep focused while meditating. This will help keep the mind off of distracting thoughts and feelings.

Relaxation Techniques

• Massage is known to reduce pain, stress and anxiety. It involves rubbing and kneading tight muscles. Massage also relieves tension and increases circulation. A massage from a friend can feel just as good, and provide many of the same benefits, as a professional massage. There are also many devices on the market for administering a self massage.
  Especially helpful after massage, cold compresses are used to numb pain, while heat helps relieve sore muscles. Compresses are rarely used as a stand-alone method of pain reduction. Experts typically suggest using hot and cold compresses in combination with other proven therapy techniques.