Why Does Post-Surgical Pain Management Matter?

Most people would assume that successfully completing surgery with no major complications would be the biggest hurdle a person would have to face. However, finishing surgery is the first step, what comes next is equally important. In reality, pain management is a major priority that can directly influence overall recovery timelines and quality of life. As a result, one of the first tasks a person will undergo immediately following surgery is to develop a pain management plan. This strategy is personalized to each patient, not just to ease discomfort but to ensure that people can effectively recover.

Creating a plan

Developing a pain management plan isn’t simply about prescribing random medications and sending a patient home after surgery. A variety of factors need to be considered. For example, a person with a history of addiction might not be a good candidate for opioids. Similarly, underlying health conditions, if a person is pregnant or nursing, or even an individual’s current weight or complications that might have occurred during surgery will all influence the plan criteria. Additionally, if a patient is currently on a medication regimen, those prescriptions will need to be considered to avoid contraindications.

Gauging pain levels

With any surgery, some level of post-operative pain is expected. However, another aspect of pain management is to educate patients on what is considered normal versus requiring watchful waiting or immediate outreach to medical professionals. The surgeon or monitoring healthcare professionals will provide instructions on what to expect during the healing process, including a timeline of when pain should subside and signs or symptoms that a problem is present. Managing pain is critical because failing to do so can increase the risk for complications such as developing blood clots and pneumonia.

Types of medications

A wide range of medications is available to manage pain, and the options given to a patient will depend on the factors listed above. The most common options are opioids, local anesthetics, and even over-the-counter (OTC) options like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and nonopioid pain relievers. Some people may even be prescribed medications that normally wouldn’t be associated with pain but can relieve symptoms, such as anti-anxiety and anti-seizure drugs. Not every patient will be given opioids as this category is the strongest pain reliever. If administered, this classification can be given either intravenously or in pill form. OTC medications are also beneficial for managing minor lingering pain as a person progresses through recovery.

Pain relief alternatives

Along with creating a prescription or OTC medication regimen, surgeons and physical therapists may also discuss non-medicated treatment options to ease discomfort. For example, depending on the type of surgery performed, patients may be encouraged to engage in RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) or alternating hot and cold therapy. Both methods can help control inflammation and swelling, ultimately reducing discomfort. Likewise, physical therapy is a proven pain relief solution that boosts blood flow and reduces the risk of developing blood clots.

Take control of pain

People facing surgery are urged to remember that creating a pain management plan is a collaborative effort. Patients should voice concerns about specific medications, previous negative interactions experienced with certain drugs, or if prescriptions aren’t working. When patients, advocates, and healthcare professionals work together, better outcomes can be ensured. When in doubt, speak with a surgeon or healthcare provider before the surgery to understand what to expect, what medications might be recommended, and how long a pain management plan will need to be followed.