Chronic Pain: Suggestions

The suggestions that follow are based on the information presented in the Detailed Information document. They are meant to help you take what you learn and apply the information to your own needs. This information is not intended nor should it be interpreted as providing professional medical, legal and financial advice. You should consult a trained professional for more information. Please read the Additional Resources document for links to more resources.

Use the Cancer Survivor’s Health Journal to prepare for your next visit with a member of your health care team:

• The Cancer Survivor’s Health Journal can be found in the Survivorship Tools area.
• Use the Health Diary to record any symptoms that you notice and when they happen.
• Use the Health Care Team Appointment document to write down everything you want to ask your health care team. You can write notes and questions on the sheet between appointments.
• Use the List of Medications to keep track of your medications. Bring this document to the appointment along with all of your medication bottles. This lets the team know all the medications you are taking, including vitamins and over-the-counter medications.
• Use the Health Care Team Appointment document to take notes during the appointment and to write down your next appointment date.
• Keep all of these documents together in a binder and bring it with you to your appointments.
• Bring extra copies of all of these documents with you to give to the health care team. You can also fax or mail these documents in before the appointment. Having the health care team read your documents may be an easier way for you to communicate.
• You can store pamphlets, medication side effect inserts and important phone numbers in your binder so that everything is in one place.

Talk to your health care team about any medication they prescribe for pain:

Medications are commonly prescribed by physicians to help control pain. It is important to understand as much as you can about the medications you are taking.

Questions to ask your health care team about medications:

• What is the name of the medication?
• How much am I supposed to take (dosage and strength)?
• When should I take this medication?
• Should I eat before I take it?
• Does this medication have any side effects?

Keep track of any medication you take for pain:

Some of the things that may help you:

• Pill dispensers
• Making lists
• Asking a family member or friend to help you keep track

Ask your health care team about complementary therapies:

Complementary therapies are things that you can do alongside standard treatments that may help you manage your pain. They are generally not considered to be standard or conventional medical approaches, but they have been known to help some people with their medical problems.

Some complementary therapies you may want to discuss with your health care team:

• Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy
• Art
• Dance
• Diet and nutrition
• Herbs, vitamins and minerals
• Music
• Meditation
• Reflexology
• Tai Chi
• Yoga
• Massage
• Spirituality

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