What can be done about pain after surgery?
There are a number of options available for the relief of postoperative pain. In the case of non-drug treatment, the main focus is on protecting the affected body region. However, this by no means means means strict bed rest.
In fact, this is rather counterproductive when it comes to “getting back on your feet” after an operation. Rather, the aim of sparing is to avoid tension and pressure on the surgical wound by conscious movements and techniques during activities such as getting up or walking, and by correct positioning when lying down. Cold or heat applications can also have a soothing effect on pain.
Cooling packs or heating pads, for example, are recommended here. Other physical therapy measures that can be used to treat pain are manual applications, such as lymph drainage or massages. Breathing and inhalation therapy also show a clearly positive effect.
Just as the sensation of pain is very subjective, the effectiveness of a therapy method can vary greatly from person to person. Good communication between patient and treating physicians or therapists is therefore of great importance. In the treatment of pain with medication, one usually follows the WHO’s step-by-step scheme.
This is based on the intensity of the pain and comprises three stages:
- The first stage is formed by the so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
- On the second stage are weak opioids.
- The third stage contains strong opioids.
As far as the intensity of the pain allows it, we usually try to go back to the lower level of the medication as soon as possible, since strong medication is often associated with stronger side effects. The drugs of the 1st level have different efficacy profiles, which allows a more specific selection with regard to the cause of pain. A frequently used drug is Metamizol.
This has a particularly good analgesic and antispasmodic effect, but has no influence on inflammation. Diclofenac or ibuprofen are therefore recommended for inflammatory pain. In addition to a good pain-relieving effect, these also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
In general, however, self-treatment with medication should never be carried out, especially after an operation. Painkillers in particular, in addition to their pain-relieving properties, have an influence on the entire body and are therefore associated with a whole range of possible side effects. Therefore, it is recommended that you always consult your doctor extensively.
Besides painkillers, various household remedies also have a good pain-relieving effect. Cold packs and sparing the affected body region can contribute to a significant improvement of the symptoms. Furthermore, various plants also have pain-reducing properties.
These are e.g. devil’s claw, willow bark or also nettle herb extract. An often overlooked aspect of pain is the stiffening effect on the complaints. So general things like regular walks, conversations and relaxation exercises can help to distract from the pain and also support the healing process.
