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.