According to the American Cancer Society, imagery and visualization, like other mind-body methods, have been shown in careful studies to promote relaxation. There is no scientific basis to support the idea that visualization or guided imagery can affect the course of cancer or lengthen survival time in cancer patients. The sensation is described as a buzzing, tingling or tapping feeling. The small electric impulses seem to interfere with pain sensations. The current can be adjusted so that the sensation is pleasant and relieves the pain.
Pain relief lasts beyond the time that the current is applied.
Your doctor or physical therapist can tell how to get a TENS unit. Distraction may work better if pain is sudden and intense or it if lasts briefly, say 5 to 45 minutes. Particular groups of acupuncture points are believed to control specific areas of pain sensation. The procedure has been used an an anesthetic in China and elsewhere to treat many types of pain, but its usefulness for cancer patients has not been proven. Many doctors believes acupuncture is not harmful as long as the needles are sterile.