Pain Management
USE ICE
About the Medications
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication. The brand name is Motrin or Advil like medications. It is not only an analgesic but also an anti-inflammatory. It has a greater benefit in recovery than narcotics. Please get the soft gel capsule version. It will be easier to swallow or to cut and mix with foods.
A narcotic will be prescribed in the form of a tablet. You can break the tablet in half and use it as needed for breakthrough pain.
Acetaminophen. The brand name is Tylenol. Use the Extra-strength 500mg/capsule. Generally, take 1000 mg (2 capsules) every 6 hours. Remember that acetaminophen is NOT anti-inflammatory. Suggest getting the capsule (gel version if available). Tablets can be crushed. The maximum dose is 3000mg (maximum of 6 per day for 500mg tablets extra strength).
About Controlling Pain
- It is not possible or safe to eliminate all pain.
- It can be reduced to a tolerable level.
- Stay on top of the pain. Do not allow the pain to become out of control.
- Use ice-cold compresses. This will help reduce the pain.
- Alternate pain medications every 3 hours, especially 3 to 7 days after surgery.
- It is better to take the pain medications in capsule form. The liquid equivalent can be a large volume and difficult to swallow.
- Take the pain medication with food: Crush/cut and mix in chocolate pudding, yogurt, or apple sauce.
- Use the prescribed narcotic to take away the pain, but the Ibuprofen will help reduce the inflammation from surgery. The narcotic does not help with this.
- The narcotic can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation. These are side effects, not an allergic reaction. Limit its use.
- By the second week after surgery, try to use only the Ibuprofen. Use the narcotic sparingly.
- By the end of the second week, most of our patients are off all pain medications with only the occasional use of Ibuprofen.
- By the third week, many of our patients are returning to school and work. They will use a gel or tablet form of Ibuprofen as needed. Do not take narcotics at school or work.
Pain Management Regimen Example
The First 3 to 4 days at Home
- Use Ice cold compresses
- Alternate the narcotic with ibuprofen every 3 hours.
6 am - Ibuprofen 200mg (2-3 tablets) = 400-600mg
9 am - Narcotic Prescription (Norco)
12 Noon - Ibuprofen 200mg (2-3 tablets) = 400-600mg
3 pm - Narcotic Prescription (Norco)
6 pm - Ibuprofen 200mg (2-3 tablets) = 400-600mg
9 pm - Narcotic Prescription (Norco)
After the first 3 to 4 days at Home
- Continue to use Ice cold compresses as needed
- Adjust the amount and timing of Ibuprofen as needed
The Third Week at Work/School
- By now you should only need Ibuprofen. Do not take narcotics at school or work or while driving.