Focused Ultrasound
Focused ultrasound is a procedure in which sonic ultrasound waves are aimed at targeted areas. This approach was examined in patients with bone metastases with magnetic resonance imaging guidance to target sound waves at metastatic lesions. This was studied for its effect on pain from bone metastases.
Erythropoietin
Erythropoietin (EPO) is an essential hormone that has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties, and helps control red blood cell production. An EPO-based mouthwash was examined for its effect on the prevention and management of mucositis in patients with cancer undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation.
Emu Oil
Emu oil is extracted from the emu, a flightless bird. This oil is used as a skin moisturizer and has been used to treat inflammatory skin effects, burns, scars, and eczema.
Disinfecting IV Catheter Caps
Disinfecting IV catheter caps contain an antiseptic barrier that is expected to provide passive and continuous disinfection of the catheter hub. The addition of this type of device to other elements of catheter maintenance have been examined for its effects on IV catheter-related infections.
Discontinuation of Limb Constriction Avoidance
A number of strategies have been proposed to minimize potential stress to the lymphatic system of an at-risk limb (the limb on the same side of the body as the surgical removal of lymph nodes) among women who have had surgery for breast cancer. One of the common recommendations has been the avoidance of arm constriction by blood pressure cuffs or tourniquets on the affected side. Increased venous pressure as a result of excessive constriction may contribute to increased lymph production and precipitate swelling of the affected limb.
Diathermy and Interferential Therapy
Diathermy is a therapy using high frequency electric current to stimulate heat generation in tissue. Interferential therapy involves the use of two different frequencies of alternating currents, creating an electric field in a painful area with electrodes placed on the skin. This is aimed at improving blood circulation and relieving pain through the inhibition of pain signals in small diameter nerve fibers according to the gate control theory.
Cognitive Behavioral Interventions/Approach for Sleep
Cognitive behavioral interventions are designed to reflect concepts from cognitive behavioral therapy, which examines the association among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Cognitive behavioral interventions do not involve full cognitive behavorial psychotherapy; however, they do assist patients in identifying negative or unhelpful thoughts and beliefs to change them.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant commonly consumed in a variety of beverages. Caffeine administration, as an adjunct to analgesics, was examined in patients with cancer for its effect on pain.
Boswellia Serrata Cream
Boswellia serrata is a tree native to North Africa and the Middle East. Its resin has been used to create incense and medicines, and contains compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory effects.
B Vitamins
B vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folate, and cobalamin. B vitamins are essential for normal nerve function, so they have been used to treat neuropathy.