There are other types of nerve blocks that can be used to relieve pain as well. While the patient is sedated, a radiologist uses a special needle to deliver radiofrequency current into a tumor, which then destroys cancer cells. This procedure has few side effects and can provide pain relief for some kinds of pain for several months. It can also be repeated when necessary. These are methods that can help supplement pain medications and other forms of pain relief, and are generally not intended to resolve pain all by themselves.
Heat can relax muscles and ease spasms, as well as encourage circulation in the body.
Warm packs and heating pads can bring comforting relief. Be sure not to apply heat to tumor sites or to areas that have recently been radiated. Apply heat for 10-20 minutes, then remove it for the same amount of time before applying again, if needed. Cold, usually in the form of a cold pack wrapped in one or more layers of cloth to prevent direct contact with the skin, is excellent for reducing inflammation and can help ease nerve pain. Use cold packs carefully, keeping them applied to the body for no more than 10-20 minutes at a time, repeating as needed after rest periods of the same amount of time.