How to Control Bone Cancer Pain
Most bone cancer patients experience some amount of pain during the course of their illness. According to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, bone cancer pain is classified as either chronic or acute. While acute pain may be as severe as chronic pain, it is usually easier to manage. Chronic pain is persistent and may become disabling over time.
The pain associated with bone cancer results from both the disease process and the treatments for the disease. Most bone cancer pain is caused by pressure on nerves and organs near a bone tumor site, according to the American Cancer Society. Full relief of pain may never be achieved in some cases, but a number of effective options exist for reducing the severity and frequency of episodes.
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Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen
- Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen
- Heating pad
Instructions
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Take a pain medication to reduce your bone pain. Begin with over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin or acetaminophen, and ask your doctor for something stronger if necessary. Many prescription pain relievers, such as codeine and morphine, can cause unpleasant side effects, including constipation, tiredness and dizziness. These side effects may interfere with your ability to feel comfortable, drive or work, but they are very effective at relieving bone pain and can be used temporarily until another pain management option begins to work.
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Reduce inflammation by taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These medications are available both over-the-counter and in stronger, prescription strengths. NSAIDs relieve the pain of bone cancer by reducing any swelling that may be contributing to the pressure on your bones. NSAIDs may also help stop the bone breakdown caused by cancer.
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Ask your doctor about radiotherapy. Radiotherapy works by shrinking the tumor(s) causing the bone pain, relieving pain and enabling your bones to begin healing and strengthening. Radiotherapy typically involves between one and three sessions, but may take several weeks to fully relieve bone pain.
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Get a nerve block to help manage your pain. Nerve blocks involve an injection of medication into the area surrounding certain nerves to deaden them. This blocks the nerve from transmitting pain signals from the painful areas near your bones to your brain.
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Speak with a surgeon or your doctor about surgical removal of your tumor. While some bone cancers cannot be effectively treated surgically, partial removal of your tumor may ease your pain considerably. When part of a tumor is removed to relieve pain and pressure, it is called debulking.
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Look into alternative therapies as a means to control your bone cancer pain. Massage, acupuncture and acupressure have proven to be effective for many people, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Acupuncture causes the body to release chemicals that naturally relieve pain, and is considered by some experts to be as effective at reducing bone and muscle pain as prescription medications. Use of a heating pad may also bring some relief.
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Join a bone cancer support group or find a therapist in your area for emotional support and counseling. Talking about your diagnosis, treatment and pain can help reduce tension and stress and make it easier to cope with your pain. Therapy can also help you develop some behavioral techniques for dealing with your bone cancer pain, such as breathing and relaxation exercises.
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