Imagery means using your imagination to create mental pictures or situations to reduce pain. The relief can last during imagery and for hours afterward. Hypnosis is a trance-like state between sleeping and waking. It can be used to block the awareness of pain or to substitute another feeling for the pain. Skin stimulation involves applying massage, pressure, vibration, heat, cold and menthol preparations to the skin on or near the area of pain to reduce or block the feeling of pain.
Acupuncture is a widely accepted method of pain relief.
Thin needles are inserted into the body at certain points for 15 to 30 minutes. Each point controls the pain sensation of a different part of the body. No discomfort is felt when the needles are in place or removed. For names of local health professionals and organizations that can help you learn pain control techniques, talk with your doctor or contact your local hospice, pain clinic or cancer treatment facility. Be sure to report any new pain to the doctor or nurse, who can determine the cause of the pain and help you make treatment decisions.