Pain associated with cancer is not something that is always talked about. When it is discussed, it is usually in reference to the side effects of cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and radiation. However, pain can stem from the cancerous tumors themselves. When tumors grow large enough, they can press on tissue, nerves, and bones, causing pain in the afflicted areas.
While pain directly related to cancer itself is not always present in all diagnosed people, it can be a very difficult, daily problem for many. Luckily, there are numerous alternative and natural ways one can cope with and even greatly diminish their cancer-related pain. With that being said, best practice is to always talk with your health care provider, so that you can discuss all treatment possibilities.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a flowering plant native to India and Southeast Asia. You have probably heard of it due to its ubiquitous use as a spice in many regional cuisines. The root of this plant contains a chemical called polyphenol curcurcumin, which has been used as a medicine by cultures for almost 4,000 years. Recently, there has been much research done to suggest that these ancient cultures may actually be right. According to some completed analyses, curcumin has been shown to reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation.
Capsicum
Capsicum, or more broadly known as the pepper, is a plant native to the Americas. There are many different species, from bell peppers to chilies, and they have been cultivated, distributed and eaten around the world. Capsicum has been known to have medicinal qualities since around 3,000 B.C. when Native Americans first began consuming the plant. What gives the Capsicum its healing properties is Capsaicin, an active chemical found inside the pepper. There are two forms in which to use Capsaicin, these being a topical cream and patches. Both of these treatments have been shown to reduce both pain and inflammation.
Honey
Honey is a great analgesic to add to one’s daily pain relief regiment. Due to its easy accessibility in any supermarket, it is an affordable and simple addition. Not only does it taste great, but honey has long been known to have many positive health benefits, including being an anti-inflammatory, an antibacterial and an immunomodulator. Adding it to some granola or tea is a perfect way to reap its benefits.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient, traditional Chinese alternative medicine, dating back nearly 5,000 years. It is performed by a trained professional, who inserts thin needles into the skin in various strategic places. Usual sessions last between ten to twenty minutes, in which one is lying down with the needles inserted. There are three main phases of Acupuncture, the insertion of the needles, the manipulation of the needles and the removal of the needles. Each of these three phases all serves a distinct purpose. Acupuncture has been demonstrated to decrease pain and discomfort. It has also been linked to a reduction in stress, which also can help to reduce pain. There are very few risks for this practice, and many professionals can be found where ever you are located.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is a very common practice. Many people all around the world get massages regularly just to help them relax and reduce some stress. Massage therapy is also used in combination with many other therapies, such as physical therapy, to aid in the healing process. Massage therapy is well known and has been established to be extremely beneficial in pain management and relief. Due to its relaxing nature, massage therapy is a fantastic way to help reduce stress and anxiety, which can both contribute to pain. Putting pressure on the muscles, joints, and tendons also helps to relieve pain from the afflicted areas. A study on massage therapy showed that an hour session three times a week for a month helped to greatly reduce chronic pain.
Cancer-related pain can be very detrimental to one’s daily life, especially when dealing with the myriad of other things one deals with one battling the disease. However, pain does not have to be debilitating. There are multiple ways to help reduce pain caused by cancer, and a discussion with your doctor about them can be of extraordinary relief.