Cancer-related Pain

Cancer-related pain may occur as a result of the cancer itself or cancer treatments. It may be felt in one area where the cancer is located or in other body areas. Cancer-related pain may be the result of a tumor pressing against nerves, bones, organs, or nerve injury from cancer treatment.

To determine whether you are suffering from cancer-related pain or pain from another condition, your provider will start with a comprehensive medical review and physical exam. Diagnostic tests that include x-rays, lab results, and/or MRIs will also be reviewed.

Cancer-related pain may be treated in many ways including non-opioid adjuvant medications, opioid medications, nerve blocks, and complementary therapies such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy. Cancer-related pain may be treated as part of a care team model involving pain psychology, pain management, oncology, surgery, and primary care specialties working together.