Pre- & Post-Surgical Pain Treatment

Pre-Surgery and Post-Surgery Pain Treatments

Certain medications and exercises can help to reduce pain and inflammation before a surgical procedure is to take place. If an infection is present, this not only causes pain, but can also complicate surgery; medication can be prescribed for both the pain and to fight infection.

Sometimes, surgery is necessary for treating back pain due to herniated discs, bone spurs, and other conditions. Many, but not all, back surgery procedures will be successful in reducing pain. Some people experience failed back syndrome after surgery, when surgery intended to correct a painful back condition does not diminish the pain, or results in further chronic pain.

In this case, treatment of the residual pain might involve physical therapy, medications, and other pain management techniques. Exercises to reduce the formation of scar tissue can be particularly helpful, as they keep the back limber and flexible. This activity, in turn, prevents scar tissue from pressing on nerves in the back and causing further discomfort.