What is Postoperative Pain?

Postoperative pain refers to the discomfort or pain experienced by patients after undergoing surgery. While surgery is often necessary to treat various medical conditions, it can also lead to discomfort and pain during the recovery phase. As a dedicated Pain Management specialist, Dr. Edward Rubin aims to provide comprehensive care to help patients manage postoperative pain effectively.

Causes of Postoperative Pain

Postoperative pain can arise due to various factors, including:

1. Tissue Trauma: Surgery involves cutting through tissues, which can cause inflammation and soreness in the affected area.
2. Nerve Sensitization: Surgical procedures can lead to the sensitization of nerves in the surgical area, making them more susceptible to pain signals.
3. Inflammation: As part of the body’s natural healing response, inflammation can occur around the surgical site, contributing to pain.
4. Muscle Spasms: Some patients may experience muscle spasms as the body tries to adjust to changes brought about by the surgery.
5. Individual Differences: Each patient may have a different pain threshold and response to surgery, leading to varying degrees of postoperative pain.

Treatment of Postoperative Pain

As a Pain Management specialist, Dr. Edward Rubin employs a variety of conservative treatments and minimally invasive procedures to help patients find relief from postoperative pain. These treatments aim to manage pain effectively without resorting to surgical options. The chosen treatment plan will depend on the individual’s specific condition and pain severity.

Treatments:

1. Medications: Non-opioid pain medications, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are often used to manage postoperative pain. These medications can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Additionally muscle relaxers and nerve stabilizers may be added. We try to limit opioid therapy to just when necessary and when their is benefit to the patient
2. Physical Therapy: Tailored physical therapy programs can aid in reducing pain, improving range of motion, and promoting healing.
3. Heat and Cold Therapy: The application of heat or cold packs to the surgical area can alleviate pain and reduce swelling.
4. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): TENS therapy involves using a device that delivers electrical impulses to the affected area, which may help reduce pain perception.
5. Lifestyle Modifications: Dr. Rubin may suggest certain lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise adjustments, to promote healing and overall well-being.

If you or a loved one is experiencing postoperative pain, don’t suffer in silence. Dr. Edward Rubin is here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life while healing. Schedule an appointment today to discuss your pain management options with Dr. Edward Rubin.