In need of a hip, knee, or shoulder replacement and worried about post-Surgery pain? Never fear! Your comfort is a top priority for MCO's highly skilled surgeons. We'll make every effort to provide you with the best care possible. However, there are also some things you can do on your own to achieve relief. Don't let your Pain control you; check out these post-surgery tips for managing your recovering pain:

Preparation is Key

Prepration is vital when it comes to surgical Treatment. Although it is impossible to escape from all pain associated with an operation, knowing what to expect can certainly help. Understanding all your options enables you to develop a treatment plan that suits you best. There are a variety of medications available to surgery patients including intravenous medicines, patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), and oral medications. Don't forget that you are the one who ultimately decides how to control your pain.

The Journey to Recovery is Different for Everyone

Overall, the type of surgery, your medical history, and your tolerance will determine your specific treatment. Sometimes where you feel pain after surgery can surprise you. After the operation you may experience a sore or scratchy throat, muscle aches from lying on the operating table, and soreness while sitting up, walking, and coughing. Consult with your doctor beforehand about what kind and level of pain you will experience as well as their suggested pain treatment method.

Follow Medication and Doctor Instructions Completely

​ Also, make sure to get your prescribed medications before your surgery so they will be available to you once you check out of the hospital. Don't wait until your pain becomes severe to take your medication; moderate it by taking your medication as scheduled, which is usually every few hours. The earlier the treatment, the better off you'll be. Early treatment can also reduce the overall dose necessary for pain meds. Still, medicines can only alleviate so much; when it comes to managing pain, sometimes good, old-fashioned relaxation is in order. Listen to music, focus on breathing deeply, and unwind your mind. When your nervous system is calm, so are you. Remember, proper pain management can speed up the recovery process and reduce your risk of complications afterward. 

McLean County Orthopedics Aims to Keep You Pain-Free

Are you experiencing knee, hip, or shoulder pain and aren't sure why? Are you due for a replacement in one of these areas? MCO is the place to go for all your orthopedic and physical therapy needs! We offer hip, knee, and shoulder replacements as well as noninvasive treatment options. Call us at 309-663-6461, or contact us online, to learn more about all of our reconstructive surgery options.