Cancer Pain Management
We know that no two patients are exactly the same, hence cancer treatment should be personalized. We not only personalize treatment, but we also personalize pain management. We focus on the whole person, maintaining the highest possible quality of life. So at Dignity Health – Cancer Institute at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, we offer a comprehensive range of services for patients with acute or chronic pain incorporating leading technologies such as Calmare which is highly effective and long lasting in the treatment of drug resistant chronic neuropathic and cancer pain – an important benefit for both patients and physicians.
When is cancer pain management needed?
The significance and severity of pain are affected by a number of individual factors, including the type and stage of your cancer, your treatment plan and your tolerance for pain. It can come from the cancer itself, or as a side effect of cancer treatment. Patients with more advanced cancer are also more likely to have severe pain. Cancer pain may result from:
- A tumor putting pressure on tissues, bones, nerves or organs
- Scar tissue
- Poor blood circulation due to blocked blood vessels
- Blockage of an organ or tube in the body, such as the kidneys or bladder
- Immobility
- Side effects of treatment such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy
- Ineffective current cancer pain medications
- Cancer cells that have spread to other locations in the body
Multidisciplinary Approach to Cancer Care
Types of pain management
Pain management may improve quality of life at any stage of cancer, so managing your pain is our priority. Our fellowship trained pain management specialist and team use a variety of techniques to treat and control pain. Some of the pain treatment options include:
- Prescription medications
- Calmare treatment
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Relaxation techniques
