Why Pain Management Matters After Surgery
A surgical procedure, whether using traditional or minimally invasive methods, can be traumatic to the body. Postoperative pain is inevitable and varies depending on the severity of the injury or illness, patient health, and surgical methods. Pain management is a critical part of the surgical process. This strategy involves pharmacological or non-pharmacological options tailored to the patient. Proper pain control limits physical and mental stress and allows optimal blood flow. Patients can also perform simple tasks like standing, sitting, coughing, or deep breathing without pain. Sometimes, pharmacological options like pain medication are not enough for post-surgical pain relief. A doctor may recommend nerve blocks, which can further reduce pain and improve overall patient satisfaction.
Placing a block on those nerves
A nerve block is a non-surgical procedure that seeks to disrupt the pain signals from a specific area to the brain. When the body experiences trauma, either from surgical incisions or injury, pain impulses are sent from the area to the brain. This is how the body perceives pain. A nerve block injects a local anesthetic and sometimes corticosteroids near the nerves of the surgical site. A doctor, pain management specialist, or anesthesiologist can perform a nerve block. A procedure called fluoroscopy allows the doctor to guide a thin needle called a catheter to the painful area. The medication is then released into the area, providing immediate pain relief. Nerve blocks can last several hours or weeks, depending on dosage and medication type.
Can a nerve block help with post-surgical pain relief?
Nerve blocks can provide specific advantages to patients, especially those in recovery. With nerve blocks, there is a more targeted approach to pain management compared to medication. Pain medication and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provide general pain relief. Nerve blocks also work faster than pharmacological solutions. Oral drugs, opioids, or steroids must pass through the liver and digestive system before being absorbed into the blood. While the patient must visit a medical professional to receive nerve blocks, the results are felt much sooner. Reduced pain helps patients to recover faster, perform physical therapy (PT) sooner, and avoid opioid dependence.
Are there any risks?
Nerve blocks are effective non-surgical forms of pain management. The procedure is not recommended for everyone and does come with risks. While rare, there are cases of infection, minor bleeding, and nerve damage at the injection site. Sometimes, the nerve block may not cover the entire surgical area, leading to inadequate pain control. Temporary weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation in the affected area can occur, which may be dangerous for recovering surgeries. Nerve blocks are temporary, and the efficacy depends on patient health, dosage, and proper administration. Consider including other pain management techniques like PT or acupuncture for more effective pain management. The best candidates are patients needing short periods of pain management or would prefer to avoid opioids.
Get the best solution for post-surgical pain
Post-surgical pain is a concern for patients hoping for a smooth recovery after surgery. Pain is unavoidable, but the length and severity of pain can be disruptive. Pain management through oral medications may not help everyone. Consider a more targeted approach in the form of nerve blocks. Statistics show at least 90% of patients are satisfied with the effectiveness of nerve blocks. Discuss the possibility of nerve blocks with the surgeon or pain management team. This simple procedure may be the key to unlocking potent, precise, and long-lasting pain relief.
