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young Asian woman in a wheelchair suffering from cancer pain

Relief from Pain Caused by Cancer

It is a known fact that pain and the stress created while trying to manage pain can make the condition worse. Alternative treatments for addressing cancer pain cannot cure the cancer; however, they often help patients manage their pain better. Safe alternatives may provide some benefits for the cancer patient and can be helpful in the reduction of pain levels.

Cancer and its treatment often present patients with a list of ailments including:

  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Pain
  • Sleep problems
  • Stress

Fortunately, these symptoms can be addressed safely with alternative methods of treatment. It is important to understand that these alternative treatments help address symptoms, but do not cure cancer. You will still need to follow your oncologist’s recommendations for treatment.

You can, however, benefit from a variety of alternative treatments to help decrease pain levels and help you cope with symptoms. Integration of these alternatives, with the care you receive for the cancer, can help you feel better.

Acupuncture for Pain Management

Many cancer patients have received help for pain relief through acupuncture. Tiny needles are used to activate nerves in precise areas. The stimulated nerves send signals to the brain, which in turn, releases neural hormones. This alternative care relieves certain types of pain in cancer patients.

In traditional Chinese medicine, a harmonious balance is maintained with energy flowing through the body. Pathways, or meridians, in the body must be kept clear to maintain a positive flow of energy. Acupuncture stimulates this energy flow and helps it stay in proper balance. While the science of the practice is challenging to understand, the results are beneficial.

This is a safe alternative when performed by a licensed practitioner. It provides effective results and is easily combined with other treatments. Some patients unable to tolerate pain medications are helped with acupuncture. There are few side effects from this treatment, and at Manhattan Sports Therapy, you are assured of receiving qualified care.

Massage

Another alternative method of relieving the pain caused by cancer and its treatment is massage. This complementary treatment helps with the symptoms of pain, cancer-related fatigue and anxiety. It can also improve your quality of life. Some patients taking chemotherapy medicines, like Taxol, find relief for the neuropathic pain related to these drugs. Different types of massage provide benefits to the patient. Types of massage include:

  • Anma therapy – which is a Japanese massage therapy
  • Aromatherapy massage
  • Classical massage
  • Deep tissue massage
  • Myofascial massage
  • Swedish massage

Deep tissue massage is not often used with active cancer treatment. Instead, it may be used a part of the after-care treatment. Once treatment for cancer is finished, chronic pain and limited range of motion, due to scar tissue, may be relieved with deep tissue massage.

Gentle massage is used to release endorphins that can reduce pain. These are the “feel good” chemicals released by the brain. Most people can tolerate gentle massage while undergoing cancer treatments. Swedish massage is a stronger type used to relieve muscle tightness and reduce stiffness.

Massage as an adjunct therapy promotes improved circulation, and it can decrease the inflammation and swelling in the area. It also improves mood by lowering the stress hormone levels in the body. Sore muscles also benefit from massage. Additionally, massage can help cancer patients relax. Some people find relief from anxiety, fear and depression with massage.

Benefits of Patient-Centered Care

Alternative treatments supplementing cancer treatment can provide a host of benefits for patients. At Manhattan Sports Therapy, Dr. Miro and his team are devoted to providing patients with excellent, personalized care.

Individualized treatment sessions promote a sense of healing, calm and serenity. While cancer treatment may feel impersonal and sterile, adding the friendly care of additional alternative treatments can be effective in helping you feel better and reducing your pain level.

Get more information about adjunct therapies to relieve the pain caused by cancer and its treatment by contacting Manhattan Sports Therapy. Schedule your consultation and assessment with Dr. Miro today.

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Happy Patients View More Testimonials

Pam L.

Having performed surgery for decades my neck And back have been damaged. I can honestly say that Rachel has kept me functioning at a high level. Nobody else was. Despite being a surgical candidate which is refused to have she managed to overcome all of my problems. The office is also immaculately clean ( I am a germaphobe). Chiro in the past was hit or miss. Sometimes it helped and sometimes it actually made things worse. This has never happened with Rachel. I always feel better. Guaranteed. She will bend over backwards to accommodate my schedule. She is a rising star.

Will A.

The entire staff is very helpful, kind, and extremely efficient. If it wasn't for Dr. Rolland Miro I strongly feel the bursitis in my shoulder would still be in major pain. If you have shoulder pain, rotator cuff issues, or bursitis don't hesitate, RUN to see this man! I came to Manhattan Sports Therapy skeptical because I had already visited two other physical therapist who were not getting me better. I had pain for 9 months until visiting MST. Miro was patient with my healing process and was always transparent when telling me what stages I was in my recovery. Now I am fully recovered back to pumping iron and putting on a backpack without pain. Thank you to everyone in that office for making my experience great from start to finish.

Natalie V.

I was having severe inner hip and lower back pain for months. Every step I took was painful. I couldn't run, bike, swim or even attempt a workout. I started seeing a PT twice a week for a month and nothing happened, in fact, my pain increased. So, I decided to try another Physician and I found Manhattan Sports Therapy and Dr. Rolland Miro. After my first appointment, I knew I made the right choice. I started seeing Dr. Rolland twice a week. After my first week, I could already feel a HUGE difference. After week three, the pain in my hip was completely gone. It's now been two months and as I continue my treatment, I'm feeling better and better. I ran five miles for the first time in over a year last week! I highly highly recommend Dr. Rolland. He's the best at what he does and he's very knowledgable when it comes to health and fitness all around.

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