Back & Neck Pain
Long-standing back pain, neck pain, sciatica and spinal joint pain, with targeted options such as nerve root block and facet or SI joint injections.
- Sciatica
- Nerve root block
- Facet joint
- SI joint
Conditions we treat
Cancer Pain Management
Pain is one of the most common worries for people living with cancer, and for their families. Good cancer pain management can make daily life more comfortable. We work alongside your oncology team to find options that suit you.
Why does cancer cause pain?
Cancer pain can come from a tumour pressing on nerves, bones or organs, or from the effects of treatment. It can be constant or come and go, and it may change over time.
Some types of abdominal pain, for example from cancer of the pancreas, travel through a bundle of nerves called the coeliac plexus. Blocking these nerves can ease pain when medicines alone are not enough, or when their side effects are hard to bear.
Common symptoms
- Persistent pain despite regular pain medicines
- Upper abdominal pain spreading to the back
- Pain that disturbs sleep, eating or daily activities
- Side effects from pain medicines, such as drowsiness or constipation
- Nerve pain: burning, shooting or electric-shock sensations
When to see a specialist
Consider booking a consultation if:
- Pain is not well controlled with your current medicines
- Side effects of pain medicines are affecting your quality of life
- You have upper abdominal or back pain from a pancreatic or other abdominal cancer
- You and your family would like to understand all the pain relief options available
How we assess it
Every assessment starts with listening. We take the time to understand the full picture before suggesting anything.
- 1
Consultation
You sit down with the specialist and talk through your symptoms, your concerns and what you would like to achieve.
- 2
Your history
We ask about your health, past illnesses, medicines, family history and daily routine, as these often explain the problem.
- 3
Examination
A gentle, careful examination of the affected area, done in privacy.
- 4
Review of your reports
We go through any previous scans, test results and prescriptions you bring, so nothing is repeated without need.
- 5
Tests, only if needed
If more information would help, your specialist will explain which test is advised and why.
Your specialist will go through your cancer reports and scans and, where helpful, speak with your oncology team before advising any option.
Treatment options
Treatment depends on the cause and how much it affects your life. Your specialist will explain each suitable option simply, including its benefits and risks, so you can decide together.
Review of pain medicines
Adjusting the type, dose and timing of pain medicines, and managing side effects, in coordination with your oncologist or palliative care team.
Coeliac plexus block
Medicine is placed around the coeliac plexus, the nerve bundle that carries pain signals from the upper abdomen, using image guidance. It can reduce pain and the need for strong pain medicines.
Other nerve blocks
For pain in specific areas, other targeted nerve blocks may be considered to interrupt pain signals.
If a procedure is recommended, your specialist will explain it and arrange it at a hospital, and you will continue your follow-up here at Vessels Clinic.
Living with it: self-care tips
- Take pain medicines regularly as prescribed, not only when pain becomes severe
- Keep a simple pain diary to share at your appointments
- Tell us about side effects; many can be managed
- Gentle movement, rest and good nutrition all help comfort
- Lean on family and support groups; you do not have to manage alone
Frequently asked questions
No. Pain treatments are planned alongside your cancer treatment, in coordination with your oncology team.
Yes, and we encourage it. A family member can help share information and remember the advice given.
Please let us know when booking. A family member can bring your reports for an initial discussion, and we will advise on the next steps.
Explore
Related conditions
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)
Leg pain while walking and poor blood circulation in the legs caused by narrowed arteries, with options including angioplasty and stenting.
- Leg pain while walking
- Angioplasty
- Stenting
Leg Swelling & Venous Ulcers
Swollen, heavy or aching legs and non-healing leg wounds, often caused by a problem in the leg veins.
- Heavy legs
- Venous ulcer
- Non-healing leg wound
Questions about cancer pain?
Message us on WhatsApp or call the clinic to book an unhurried consultation with the specialist.