There are many options available for the treatment of cancer related pain. Most patients are treated with medications initially. Other treatments for pain may include surgery, radiation therapy, or neurosurgery. Almost all patients have complete relief of pain with the appropriate management. Cancer pain is usually caused by a tumor pressing against bones, nerves, or bodily organs.
Cancer treatments can also cause pain and discomfort.
Patients may have pain caused by things that have nothing to do with cancer such as muscle strains and arthritis. The first step in the management of cancer pain is choosing the correct pain medication. There may be a period of trial and error while your physician attempts to find the right medication and dosage for you. There are a large variety of medications, which range in strength from over the counter medications such as aspirin to strong prescription medications such as morphine. Pain medications may be given as pills, liquids, suppositories, skin patches, or injections.