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Formerly known as California Oncology of the Central Valley Request an Appointment
Translate this page: EnglishEspañol
Formerly known as California Oncology of the Central Valley Request an Appointment

Joint & Muscle Pain

About Joint and Muscle Pain

  • Joint pain, also known as arthralgia, commonly affects the wrists, arms, feet, knees, hips, and back.
  • Muscle pain is also known as myalgia.

Joint and muscle pain are possible side effects of some cancer treatments, including certain chemotherapies and hormone therapies. When arthralgias and myalgias occur as a side effect of chemotherapy, it usually comes and goes within two to three days of treatment. Pain associated with hormone therapy can last longer because of the longer prescription of that therapy.

Managing the Pain

Lifestyle changes, pain management, physical therapy can all help patients cope with myalgias and arthralgias. If self-care is not helping to control the pain, contact the care team.

  • Exercise daily with low-impact activities, like walking, swimming, and gardening
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, like running, aerobics, and contact sports
  • Take warm baths
  • Apply heating pads or ice packs to inflamed areas
  • Gently massage inflamed areas
  • Physiotherapy may be prescribed
  • Tylenol (Acetaminophen) and Advil or Aleve (Ibuprofen) can help alleviate pain, but check with the care team first