Postsurgical pain

Chronic post-surgical pain is a significant problem that affects a significant number of patients after surgery. It is defined as pain that persists for three or more months after the surgical procedure. Some examples include knee pain after knee surgery, abdominal/groin pain after inguinal hernia surgery, and persistent back pain after back surgery. At Lighthouse Spine Center we believe that effective pain management is essential in reducing chronic post-surgical pain and improving outcomes.

Causes of Post-Surgical Pain

Post-surgical pain can arise from a variety of causes. Tissue trauma occurs when surgical incisions are made, leading to tissue damage and inflammation, which can result in pain and discomfort. In addition, inflammation can occur in response to the body's natural healing process, causing further pain and discomfort. Nerve damage is also a common cause of post-surgical pain, particularly in procedures involving nerves, such as spinal surgery, hernia repair or joint replacement surgery. Muscle spasms can also occur after surgery, particularly in procedures involving the back or neck, causing pain and limited mobility. Sometimes, the causes cannot be identified.

Symptoms of Chronic Post-Surgical Pain

Common symptoms of chronic post-surgical pain include discomfort, tenderness, and soreness at the surgical site. In some cases, patients might have swelling, change of color or sensitivity to touch. Depending on the severity of the pain, patients may have limited mobility and may find it challenging to perform routine activities. In some cases, patients may also experience sharp, shooting, or burning pain, particularly if nerve damage is present.

Diagnosis of Chronic Post-Surgical Pain

The diagnosis of chronic post-surgical pain typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. During the medical history, we will ask the patient questions about their symptoms, including the location and intensity of pain and any other associated symptoms such as swelling or redness. A physical examination will involve an assessment of the surgical site, checking for any signs of infection, inflammation, or nerve damage. In some cases, nerve conduction studies may also be used to evaluate nerve function.

Treatment Options

Treatment options for post-surgical pain may include a combination of medications and interventional procedures, such as nerve blocks or epidural injections. Non-invasive options, such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may also be recommended to manage pain and promote healing. If injections are ineffective, spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, or peripheral nerve stimulation can be tried.

Prevention of Chronic Post-Surgical Pain

At Lighthouse Spine Center, we understand the importance of preventing chronic post-surgical pain to improve our patient’s quality of life. We prioritize prevention strategies to minimize the likelihood of long-term pain after surgery. We employ a multidisciplinary approach that includes preoperative evaluation, patient education, and the use of multimodal analgesia techniques. Our team of experienced physicians works closely with patients to develop a personalized pain management plan that includes non-opioid medications, nerve blocks, physical therapy, and other non-invasive treatments. Preventing chronic post-surgical pain requires a proactive approach and a commitment to providing comprehensive care. If you are scheduled for surgery, contact us today to learn more about our pain management services and how we can help prevent chronic post-surgical pain.

Our Post Surgical Pain Treatment Services

At Lighthouse Spine Center, we specialize in managing various types of chronic pain. Our pain management specialists will work closely with you to develop personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs and circumstances. Our services include a range of medication management options and interventional procedures to relieve and aid with chronic post-surgical pain. We offer nerve blocks, sympathetic blocks, epidural steroid injections, spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, peripheral nerve stimulation, and other treatments which can be life-changing.

If you are experiencing chronic post-surgical pain, our team at Lighthouse Spine Center is here to help you manage your pain. We encourage you to schedule a consultation or appointment today and take the first step towards a pain-free life.