Post-Surgical Pain Treatment

After any type of surgery, pain is to be expected. The amount of pain that you have and its duration often depends on the type of surgery, your age, and the evasiveness of the procedure. However, there are many ways to cope with post-surgical pain treatment to make your recovery time more pleasant.

BEGIN BY ASKING QUESTIONS

Before your surgery, your doctor will be able to tell you what kind of pain you will experience and approximately how long it will last. Once you have this discussion, your doctor can consult with you about a pain-management plan. This may include medications, massages, and other ways to relieve pain that allow you to rest and recuperate more effectively.

TAKING PAIN MEDICATION

One of the most effective ways to manage pain after surgery is to take your prescribed pain medication as ordered by your doctor. Many patients make the mistake of waiting until they feel pain before taking their medication. However, by waiting until you are in pain, you will have to suffer through it until your medication begins to work. That’s why it is recommended to stay ahead of the pain and to take the medication on a set schedule. Be sure that you understand exactly how often to take your medication and to keep track of what time you have taken it.

ANXIETY AFTER SURGERY

Developing depression or anxiety after surgery is a common occurrence. This can make it harder to become active after your surgery and slow your recovery. Depression and anxiety can also worsen your pain. If you need treatment for these conditions, speak to your doctor and find out about medications that are available to you. These can also help lessen your post-surgical pain in many cases.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

After some types of surgery, physical therapy may be helpful. This can lessen pain over time and help the healing and strengthening process. If your pain and/or stiffness persist, ask your doctor whether physical therapy could help you to heal and to feel better.

STAY IN CONTACT WITH YOUR DOCTOR

If your pain persists after your doctor’s estimate, call your doctor. If you have pain after the healing should have been completed, there may be another issue that is causing it. There is no reason to go through pain alone and without help from your doctor. Keep your doctor informed about how you are recovering and about your level of pain.

At Alliance Spine and Pain Centers, we are proud to take a comprehensive and highly progressive approach to healing and pain management that allows us to treat each patient’s pain effectively. To learn more about methods for post-surgical pain treatment, give us a call at 770.929.9033 or schedule a pain management consultation.