Physical Stimulation Suffering is triggered by pain signals transmitted through the nervous system and spinal cord to the brain. One way to short-circuit or mask these pain signals is by providing a different, competing physical sensation. Application of heat or cold to painful areas, for example, often masks or mutes pain signals and reduces suffering. Massage can also provide a soothing sensation that competes with pain signals sent to the brain. Family members and friends can be enlisted to help with this non-drug pain therapy.
Some patients find exercise a potent pain reliever.
I've tried everything to control it including acupuncture and pain pills. I find that working out in the gym seven times a week provides the best pain relief, and has the added bonus of increasing my stamina over pre-BMT levels. I learned active and passive relaxation, biofeedback, and how to reward myself for getting through difficult procedures. I also used the breathing techniques I learned in pre-natal Lamaze classes to help get me through bone marrow aspirates. While non-drug pain control techniques will not cure your disease or take the place of pain medications, they can give you a greater sense of control over your body and help make the healing process more tolerable.