Pain Management For Cancer
Apr 12, 2018
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A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and stressful. However, many patients don’t think about cancer-related pain until it’s a reality. At Integrated Pain Consultants, pain management for cancer is a specialty with conservative and alternative treatments
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and stressful. However, many patients don’t think about cancer-related pain until it’s a reality. At Integrated Pain Consultants, pain management for cancer is a specialty with conservative and alternative treatments at the forefront. Depending on the type of cancer, a variety of pains may be experienced. For example, bone cancer is linked to spinal compression fractures. This occurs when tiny hairline cracks in the vertebrae build up until a spinal collapse occurs. Fortunately, there are options such as kyphoplasty, a treatment in which bone cement is used to relieve pain and re-strengthen the spine. We also invite you to learn more about Dr. Nikesh Seth and other providers including Dr. Anne-Marie Cosijns, Dr. Lisa Sparks, Dr. Michael Givens, and our team of Nurse Practitioners.
Many types of cancer pains are caused when a tumor presses on organs, nerves, or bones. Nerve pain can be treated with a variety of effective and safe options. In some cases, the type of chemotherapy drugs used can also cause pain, numbness, or tingling (particularly in the feet and hands). Some chemotherapy drugs cause a burning sensation at the injection spot.
CHRONIC VS ACUTE PAIN
Cancer patients undergoing radiation can also experience painful side effects. No matter what type of pain you experience due to cancer and/or cancer treatments, there are two types of pain: acute and chronic. Acute pain is caused by an injury and usually lasts only a short amount of time. For instance, a surgery related to the cancer will likely cause some post-operative acute pain. In these instances, medication management may be prescribed.
Chronic pain is usually caused by nerve changes. Perhaps a chemical produced by the tumor or a tumor pressing on the nerves is the cause. Chronic pain can range from mild to severe and lasts several months or years. Also called persistent pain, it’s important to treat chronic pain in a conservative manner to avoid the risk of medication dependency.
You may experience nerve pain, bone pain, soft tissue pain, referred pain, or phantom pain as part of your cancer journey. The degree of pain is dictated by cancer stage, location, and whether or not you experience nerve damage as part of your journey. Lack of sleep, fear, depression, and anxiety can also exacerbate cancer pain.
PAIN TREATMENT FOR CANCER PATIENTS
Cancer patients already have a full enough plate. Pain can and should be managed and relieved, and there are a variety of methods to do so. Schedule your consultation with Integrated Pain Consultants today and get more information on therapies such steroid injections. Find out more by booking an appointment online or calling (480) 626-2552 today.