Cancer pain is a common physical manifestation in people with cancer. It is an unpleasant and persistent sensation that can be mild or intense, acute or chronic. It can appear at any stage of cancer and usually has a profound impact on the patient’s quality of life. Proper management is essential to ensure physical and emotional well-being during cancer treatment.
Cancer Pain:
Causes and options for specialized relief
Pain in cancer patients is a reality that affects both physical and emotional health. At CEAD Pain Relief Specialists, we understand that each case is unique, and that is why we offer personalized treatments to improve your quality of life. Below, we explain the most common causes of cancer pain and how we can help you:
Pain from the cancer itself (tumor lesion)
When the tumor grows, it can press on nerves, bones or organs, generating localized or radiating pain. For example:
Bone metastasis: Up to 70% of patients with advanced cancer in South America develop severe pain due to bone involvement, especially in breast, prostate or lung cancer.
Nerve or viscera compression: Common in abdominal or pelvic tumors.
Pain due to treatments
Cancer procedures can also cause discomfort:
Surgeries: Postoperative pain can become chronic if not managed in time.
Chemotherapy: Up to 40% of patients develop neuropathy (burning, tingling or numbness in hands and feet).
Radiotherapy: May cause tissue inflammation or fibrosis.
Why choose us?
In Medellín, we are a reference in oncological pain relief with:
- Multidisciplinary team: doctors, physiotherapists and psychologists working together for your well-being.
- Advanced technology: from drugs to minimally invasive interventional therapies.
- Human care: we believe that pain relief goes beyond the physical; we are with you every step of the way.
It’s not normal to live with pain. If you or a loved one is facing these discomforts, schedule an appointment with us. Together we will find the best solution for you to regain your peace of mind.
Rehabilitation plan with state-of-the-art physiatry
“83% of patients with advanced cancer in Colombia suffer moderate to severe pain, but less than 30% receive adequate treatment” (Ministry of Health, 2023). At CEAD we are not just doctors: we are allies in your battle against pain.
The 4 Faces of Cancer Pain We Perfectly Understand
The Talking Tumor (Growing Pain)
What you feel: Dull throbbing that won’t let up, bones creaking, constant pressure.
The science behind it: Tumors compressing nerves (such as Pancoast syndrome in lung cancer) or bone metastases that weaken your structure.
The price of victory (post-treatment pain)
What no one told you: That chemo could leave your hands burning (neuropathy in 58% of cases according to a UPB study) or that surgical scars can hurt years later.
Phantom pain (when the mind increases suffering)
The paradox: Anxiety and depression can triple the perception of pain. That’s why our approach includes integrative pain therapy.
The abandonment syndrome (when you’re told “it’s normal”)
Our promise: We will never minimize your pain. With our Certified Palliative Medicine Unit, we have protocols for even the most complex cases.
Every month we are chosen by 1200 patients in the city of Medellin.
Technology that makes a difference: Unique in Medellin with pulsed radiofrequency for neuropathic pain (lasting relief without surgery).
Prevention
Although it is not always possible to prevent cancer pain, it is possible to reduce its intensity and early onset with timely management. Early detection of cancer and continuous follow-up with specialized medical teams allows for better control of symptoms. At CEAD, we work hand in hand with oncologists and other specialists to anticipate pain, adapting treatments in a personalized way according to the evolution of each patient.
