Managing cancer pain and discomfort can be a daunting task, especially in between doctor’s appointments. Advanced Physical Medicine understands that managing your pain is an integral part of the healing process and can help you create a plan to manage your symptoms at home. Let’s explore some strategies to help you manage your pain and discomfort in between appointments.
Medication Management
Managing pain through medications is one of the most common approaches. Depending on the type of medication prescribed by your doctor, it can be taken as needed or on a regular schedule. Be sure to follow the instructions given by your doctor as they relate to timing, dosage, and any usage warnings associated with certain medications. It’s also important to keep track of side effects associated with each medication so that you can discuss them with your doctor during your next appointment.
Physical Activity
Physical activity can help reduce many types of chronic pain because it releases endorphins, which are body chemicals that act as natural painkillers. Low-impact activities such as yoga and stretching can help reduce inflammation associated with cancer treatment while also providing relief from stress and anxiety caused by the condition. However, if you experience any sharp pains or discomfort during physical activity, stop immediately and consult with your physician for further advice before continuing these activities again.
Complementary Therapies
Complementary therapies such as massage therapy, acupuncture, or tai chi can provide relief from the pains associated with cancer treatment without relying solely on medications. These treatments work best in conjunction with medical treatments prescribed by your doctor and should never be used as a replacement for traditional medical treatments. Additionally, some complementary therapies may not be covered under insurance plans so it is important to check first before committing to any of these treatments.
Advanced Physical Medicine understands just how difficult it can be living with chronic pain associated with cancer treatment but there are ways to manage it at home in between appointments. Medication management along with physical activity and complementary therapies are all viable options for managing pain while seeking medical attention from our experienced team here at APM . With the right combination of treatments tailored specifically for you, we believe that you will begin feeling better soon! Contact us today if you need any assistance finding solutions for reducing your cancer-related discomfort!