Cancer Pain Treatment by Expert Pain Specialists in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

Cancer-related pain can be a significant challenge for patients, affecting not only physical comfort but also emotional and psychological well-being. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our experienced pain doctors provide individualized cancer pain management solutions to help you maintain quality of life. Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Mesa, our pain clinic offers compassionate care and advanced treatments tailored to your needs.

What Is Cancer Pain?

Cancer pain does not affect every patient in the same way. In some cases, the cancer itself causes discomfort by pressing on nerves, bones, or organs. In other situations, the pain may be caused by treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Regardless of the source, managing cancer pain effectively is essential for improving daily functioning and emotional health.

For many patients, cancer pain may present as dull, sharp, burning, or throbbing sensations. It may be constant or intermittent, mild or severe. While treatment may help control the underlying disease, working with a pain specialist ensures your comfort remains a top priority throughout the process.

Common Symptoms of Cancer Pain

Because cancer pain varies by location, severity, and cause, patients may experience different types of discomfort. Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the area of the tumor or surrounding tissues

• Burning, tingling, or crawling nerve pain

• Aching or throbbing pain in bones

• Cramping or sharp pain in soft tissue or organs

• Pain that worsens during movement or certain times of day

Additionally, some treatments used to combat cancer can increase discomfort, making it essential to discuss new or worsening symptoms with your pain doctor. With the right interventions, many of these symptoms can be reduced or even prevented.

Causes of Cancer-Related Pain

There are several sources of cancer pain, each requiring a different approach to treatment. These causes include:

• Tumors pressing on nerves, bones, or organs

• Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation-related side effects

• Diagnostic procedures such as biopsies

• Secondary conditions, including peripheral neuropathy, spinal cord compression, or radiation injuries

• Post-surgical conditions such as phantom limb pain or referred pain

For example, a tumor near the spine may cause nerve pain, while a surgical site could lead to localized discomfort. Identifying the cause allows our pain clinic to develop an appropriate plan for relief.

Diagnostic Tests for Cancer Pain

To accurately manage cancer pain, it’s important to determine whether it is caused by the cancer itself, treatment, or another medical condition. Your pain specialist may order several diagnostic tests, including:

• Blood, urine, or fluid lab testing

• Imaging such as CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, or bone scans

• Biopsies for tissue evaluation

• Neurological exams to assess nerve function

Additionally, your doctor may recommend keeping a symptom diary. Tracking the intensity, location, and duration of your pain helps guide treatment decisions and detect any changes in your condition early.

Types of Cancer Pain

Cancer pain can take many forms, and understanding them helps in choosing the right treatment:

• Nerve pain (neuropathic): caused by pressure or damage to the spinal cord or nerves

• Bone pain: typically due to cancer spreading into bone tissue

• Soft tissue pain: affecting muscles or organs, often described as cramping or throbbing

• Phantom pain: pain felt in an area that has been surgically removed

• Referred pain: felt in a different part of the body than the cancer site, such as liver issues causing shoulder pain

Because each type of pain behaves differently, the approach used by a pain doctor may vary to ensure targeted relief.

Cancer Pain Treatment Options

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our pain specialists focus on reducing pain while supporting overall well-being. Treatment strategies are designed to match the intensity and type of cancer pain a patient experiences. Common treatments include:

Cancer-Focused Treatments

• Chemotherapy or radiation therapy

• Hormone therapy or immunotherapy

• Surgical procedures

• Bone marrow transplant

• Participation in clinical trials for new treatment options

Pain Management Therapies

• Over-the-counter or prescription medications

• Opioids for moderate to severe pain (monitored carefully)

• Nerve blocks to interrupt pain signals

• Electrical stimulation (TENS therapy)

• Acupuncture and massage therapy

• Heat and cold therapy to reduce inflammation

• Relaxation techniques, meditation, or aromatherapy

• Movement and repositioning to relieve stiffness or pressure

Each treatment plan is customized by your pain doctor to align with your cancer stage, other medical conditions, and personal preferences. Importantly, all care is delivered with compassion and sensitivity, especially for those in advanced stages or undergoing intense therapy.

Why See a Pain Doctor for Cancer Pain?

Pain associated with cancer is often complex and may change over time. Working with a specialized pain clinic ensures you have access to the latest tools and therapies for relief. Our pain doctors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa are highly trained in managing cancer-related discomfort, regardless of the cause.

You should consult a pain specialist if your pain:

• Prevents you from sleeping, eating, or performing daily tasks

• Changes in intensity or spreads to new areas

• Does not respond to current medications

• Occurs after treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy

• Creates emotional distress or affects your mental health

Early involvement of a pain clinic can significantly improve your cancer journey by enhancing comfort and functionality.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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