Pain Management after Foot Surgery

If you are seeking more information about pain management after foot surgery, chances are you need help right away. Or perhaps you are taking a proactive approach before a scheduled surgery because you are worried about the pain. Dealing with post-surgery discomfort can be a difficult experience. It can affect your quality of life and your ability to experience smooth recovery.

Some degree of pain is common following a surgical procedure. However, there are steps you can take to keep your pain under control. Let’s go over some of the most effective pain management strategies and methods following foot surgery.

Talk with Your Podiatrist before the Surgery

Let your foot doctor know about your concerns. He or she will be able to put your mind at ease. Inform your doctor of any other medications and supplements you are currently taking. These may impact the medication you can tolerate after the procedure. This is also a good time to let your doctor know if you have had negative responses to specific pain medications in the past.

Feel free to ask the doctor about how much pain you should expect and how long the pain will last. Similarly, ask what they plan to do to help with pain management. Knowing what to expect can help you to alleviate the anxiety you are feeling and set you up for a successful recovery.

Different Types of Pain Management Methods

Ultimately, it will be up to your doctor to determine which medications and treatments are right for your unique situation and surgery. However, some of the different options for the management of pain after a procedure include:

• Opioids: A powerful medication that reduces your perception of the pain, opioids include hydromorphone, oxycodone, fentanyl, and tramadol.
• Local Anesthesia: Bupivacaine and lidocaine are two types of anesthetics your doctor may use at the surgical site to provide a short-term sensation loss in that area.
• NSAIDs or Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs: Over the counter NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib, work to reduce inflammation, which will minimize pain.
• Other Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, and ketamine can help to take the edge off of the pain.

Find a Trusted Local Podiatrist for Your Foot Surgery

To have the most positive experience possible following foot surgery, the best thing you can do is choose a podiatrist you can trust. We go above and beyond to put our patients’ minds at ease and provide the highest level of care post-surgery. Learn more about the most effective methods for pain management after foot surgery when you contact one of the best podiatrists in in New Jersey at our conveniently located offices in Ocean and Essex Counties