Post operative pain management is an essential part of any surgery for both the surgeon and the patient. Gone are the days of prescribing a couple of Vicodin, waving goodbye to the patient after surgery, and letting them suffer without guidance.
- Preparation. If you are mentally prepared for the pain it will not be as surprising or disturbing. If you prepare your home to accommodate for your post-surgical limitations, you will be less taxed and better able to recover quickly.
- Use your Medications. Narcotics are the base of any pain management platform. I use a long acting (slow-release) narcotic such as Oxycontin or MS Contin every 8 hours. This long acting drug gives great control during the first few days after surgery. I do not prescribe this beyond a few days as only patients with chronic pain need a pain killer of this strength. I also prescribe a short acting medication such as Oxycodone or Morphine Sulfate Instant Release to help with “Breakthrough Pain” (pain that exceeds control by the long acting medicine). I recommend a more liberal use of these medications during the first few hours after numbing shots or nerve blocks wear off.
- Mental Imagery. Avoid using the word “pain” – it enhances itself. Discomfort is more descriptive and less irritating. Focus on other things to distract yourself from the discomfort. Read a book, watch television, or use a computer.
- Follow your surgeon’s restrictions. In any surgery, the most important thing to do is to listen to your surgeon and/or doctor. If you don’t listen to their recommendations, pain will be worse and you may delay or prevent healing.
Recovering from surgery can often be a long and scary process. But follow these 4 tips, and your recovery is sure to be less painful and more successful.