Pain relief without medication | Pain after surgery

Pain relief without medication

Drug treatment of pain is indispensable for postoperative pain therapy. In addition to medication, however, there are also some measures that can have a positive influence on postoperative pain. Due to the significant influence of the psyche on the perception of pain, anything that contributes to an increased relaxation of the patient can have an analgesic effect.

For example, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques, as well as music and distraction, can have a supportive effect. An incorrect body position can also put the operated wound under tension and thus lead to increased pain. Here it can help to choose a different body position, possibly also by changing the position of the bed. If requested by the nursing staff, most clinics also provide additional pillows that can help with positioning.

Risks

The greatest risk for patients who suffer severe postoperative pain without effective pain management is the possible chronification of the symptoms. Studies show that the risk of chronic pain increases after surgery, with the intensity of pain experienced by the patient during the hospital stay.In addition, different risk groups for the development of chronic postoperative pain can be observed. Anxious people and those suffering from severe psychological stress are considered particularly at risk. Age also plays a decisive role in the development of chronic postoperative pain. In general, younger patients are significantly more at risk than older people.

Summary

In medical terminology, the term “post-operative pain” refers to pain phenomena that occur after an operation and last for a certain period of time. Postoperative pain can vary greatly in intensity and duration. The exact extent and localization of postoperative pain depends on the type and extent of the surgical procedure.

In most cases, post-operative pain completely disappears within a few days. In addition, the discomfort experienced after surgery can be easily and quickly relieved by the administration of painkillers. The treatment of postoperative pain is particularly important in the first few days after surgery. Otherwise, the affected patients run the risk of developing a so-called chronic pain syndrome, which can develop into a pronounced pain disorder.