5 Tips For Reducing Post-operative Pain Without Using Narcotics

Tips For Reducing Post-Operative Pain Without Using Narcotics: Narcotics have traditionally been used for postoperative pain relief due to their ability to reduce pain signals to the brain. Narcotics are opioid drugs that bind to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the intensity of pain signals.

In addition to providing analgesic (pain relief) effects, narcotics can produce a feeling of euphoria and relaxation, providing psychological comfort to the patient during severe pain and recovery.

Narcotics were thought to be effective because they offered quick, reliable pain relief with one-believed-to-be minimal side effects. However, the use of narcotics for post-operative pain relief has become increasingly controversial due to the potential for addiction and dependence. This post will cover five tips for reducing postoperative pain without using narcotics.

Overview of Post-operative Pain

Postoperative pain is a common type of pain that is experienced after a surgical procedure. It can range from mild to severe and can have different causes. It is usually caused by inflammation and tissue damage from the surgical procedure but can also be caused by nerve irritation from the anesthesia or the procedure itself.

Every operation has a different size of incision, tissue manipulation and tissue trauma so some operations cause more pain than others. These include operations such as joint replacements, hernia repairs, hysterectomies, and orthopedic operations. Postoperative pain can also be experienced after laparoscopic procedures, such as gallbladder removal.

Anyone who has undergone a surgical procedure can experience postoperative pain, but it is more likely to occur in elderly people and those who already suffer from chronic pain. It can also be more severe in those with multiple surgical procedures.

Why Avoid Narcotics?

Narcotics are not the right way to reduce postoperative pain because they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, confusion, and constipation. Additionally, they can be incredibly addictive to some, causing lifelong struggles with opioid addictions.

Instead, non-narcotic pain medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can reduce the pain. Other methods of managing postoperative pain include ice and heat therapy, relaxation techniques, and physical therapy. So, let’s get into our 5 tips for reducing postoperative pain without using narcotics.

Tip 1: Use Ice and Heat Therapy

Ice and heat therapy can reduce postoperative pain by numbing the area with cold and increasing blood flow to the area with heat. Cold therapy can reduce swelling and reduce nerve conduction velocity, while heat can promote muscle relaxation and increase blood flow to the area.

Ice and heat therapy is preferable to narcotics because they are natural, non-invasive, and do not carry the potential for addiction or other harmful side effects. Additionally, ice and heat therapy can be combined with other treatments to help reduce pain more effectively.

We recommend using products like the NICE1 Cold/Compression Therapy and similar products in our line of cold/heat therapy systems.

Tip 2: Incorporate Physical Activity

Go For Walks or Attend Physical Therapy

Depending on the surgery, if you can walk after your procedure without it affecting your healing, get out and enjoy a light, 20-minute to one-hour walk at least once daily. Alternatively, find yourself a treadmill if the weather is less than ideal.

Sometimes, your surgical procedure may limit your ability to walk without inhibiting the healing process. In these cases, it is essential to avoid walking unless otherwise told by your healthcare professional. Most doctors will recommend attending several sessions with a physical therapist to regain strength and muscle control in some regions of your body.

Staying physically active will help improve blood flow, which will help speed your recovery process when combined with other positive healing methods. For some patients, a “waterfall” approach to time spent walking can help. Start with a five-minute walk one day, then seven minutes, then nine, and so on. Please consult your healthcare professional to determine an exercise program that will work best for you.

Stretching

Performing the proper stretches as prescribed by a healthcare professional can help to expedite the healing process and reduce postoperative pain. Stretching can also improve the affected area's flexibility, strength, and range of motion and can help to reduce scar tissue formation and increase the flow of nutrients to the area, which can help to reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.

Stretching can also help reduce the risk of injury and improve balance and coordination. Additionally, it can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality, which is essential for a successful recovery. By performing the correct stretches, patients can help reduce their recovery time and postoperative pain and return to normal activities as quickly as possible.

Yoga

Yoga can be a helpful tool to reduce postoperative pain in some patients. It can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, as well as promote relaxation and healing. Yoga also helps to reduce stress, which has been known to exacerbate postoperative pain due to increased cortisol in the bloodstream.

Additionally, certain yoga poses can help to strengthen and stretch muscles, which can help to reduce tension and discomfort. Moreover, yoga can help improve circulation, speeding up healing and reducing pain. Consult with your healthcare professional before attempting yoga routines to avoid potential damage to your healing process.

Tip 3: Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eat More Fruits and Veggies

Eating fruits and vegetables can help reduce postoperative pain because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation. The antioxidants in fruits and vegetables can help reduce inflammation caused by surgery, which can then reduce pain.

Certain fruits and vegetables contain compounds that can help reduce pain, such as capsaicin (in peppers), quercetin (in apples), and omega-3 fatty acids (in salmon). Don’t turn your nose up the next time you go through the produce section at the grocery store; make sure to incorporate at least five servings of fruits and vegetables into your postoperative diet.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated after a surgical procedure is essential for several reasons. First, it helps to reduce postoperative pain by flushing out toxic waste products that can cause pain and discomfort.

Hydration also helps maintain the body’s electrolyte balance, improving healing by providing the necessary nutrients for tissue repair. Additionally, hydration will help thin the blood, reducing the risk of clotting and improving circulation.

Finally, staying hydrated will help to prevent infection by providing the body with the fluids it needs to fight off bacteria and viruses. Try to avoid beverages high in sugar because it is crucial to maintain a healthy blood sugar level to promote a healthy recovery. Sparkling water is a great way to break up the bland taste of plain tap water and can encourage folks to drink plenty of water.

Plenty of fruits and vegetables can also help supplement your daily water intake.

Limit Alcohol and Caffeine Intake

Let’s face it, after a traumatic event like a surgical procedure, most Americans will turn to moderate alcohol consumption to take the edge off. But before you break open that new bottle of bourbon, understand that alcohol consumption significantly impedes the body’s natural ability to heal.

Alcohol is a depressant to the central nervous system, which causes temporary but mild pain relief. On the other hand, alcohol causes significant dehydration and damage to the liver and inhibits the body’s cells' ability to regenerate and restore themselves. In other words, alcohol will slow your recovery process.

Caffeine consumption can also harm someone who has just undergone a surgical procedure. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, both of which can cause strain on the body and delay healing. It can constrict blood vessels, which can make it harder for the body to heal and may lead to more postoperative pain.

Additionally, caffeine can make it more difficult for the body to absorb medications, including non-narcotic pain medications, which may increase discomfort. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals who have recently had a surgical procedure avoid caffeine consumption to help reduce postoperative pain.

Tip 4: Make Sleep a Priority

Getting enough sleep is essential post-surgery because it helps the body to heal and recover. Sleep helps to reduce inflammation, promote cell repair, and regulate hormone levels. Getting enough sleep can reduce postoperative pain by helping the body to manage the pain signals more effectively.

Sleep also helps to reduce stress, which can lead to an increase in pain levels. Additionally, sleep can help to improve the body’s immune system, which can help to reduce the risk of infection. So make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep every night (put down the phone before bed and try reading a book; exposing yourself to blue light before bed will surely kill your sleep schedule)!

Tip 5: Use Non-Opioid Pain Medications

Non-narcotic pain medications that can reduce postoperative pain include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen, acetaminophen, and COX-2 inhibitors such as celecoxib.

Topical analgesics, lidocaine patches, and nerve blocks can also be used. Additionally, muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants may be used to reduce postoperative pain.

Using non-narcotic pain medications is the best way to avoid the detrimental side effects of opioids. Always consult your healthcare professional before using any medications to avoid potential complications.

The Bottom Line

Although narcotic pain medications have traditionally been the frontrunner in reducing postoperative pain, many healthcare professionals are recommending patients switch to non-narcotic alternatives due to the rising opioid crisis.

Many people have chosen a non-narcotic approach to their recovery. With these five tips, you can rest easy knowing that you will be one step closer to a healthy recovery without the downsides of opioid use. If you would like to inquire about any of the products listed on our website, please contact us today.

Disclaimer: We are not a licensed healthcare provider. Consult with your healthcare professional before adhering to any tips on this page to avoid unnecessary complications or inhibitors to your healing process.