Pain management

Many people experience pain after surgery. It might not always be comfortable, but it is a normal part of the healing process. Post-operative pain can be effectively managed and typically lessens over time. 

If you already have pain before surgery, it's important to talk with your GP as pain that is not well managed pre-operatively can affect your recovery.

Pain may affect your recovery by:

• limiting your mobility resulting in an increased risk of blood clots
• causing you to suppress coughs leading to a higher risk of developing a chest infection
• slowing gut function which can delay recovery
• making it hard to get a good night’s sleep
• leaving you feeling stressed, depressed and/or anxious.

Discuss your pain management options with your doctor before surgery.  

Although pain medication may be prescribed, the most effective pain treatments are non-drug approaches (including relaxation, graded activity, mindfulness and goal setting). It is very important that you reduce any use of opioid medication before surgery.