It’s not uncommon to experience pain after spine surgery, whether you have a minor procedure performed or major repair work. After all, your muscles, bones, and ligaments are getting a lot of abuse. When pain is not controlled properly, this can cause serious problems. You could be facing a longer, less pleasant hospital stay in the short-term. Long-term, you could face a delayed recovery, opioid dependence, or even other health issues, such as chronic pain disorders and blood clots.

Up to two thirds of back surgery patients report poor pain management. Some key factors, such as the type of back surgery and patient’s age, can help predict which patients will end up in more pain. This could prevent excessive post-surgical discomfort before it begins.

Researchers from the University of Calgary published a Journal of Neurosurgery online study in September 2020. They first identified seven factors that are precio de operación de hernia discal associated with poor postoperative control. They then developed a score to identify people who are likely to suffer from it. This was called the Calgary Postoperative Pain After Spine Surgery Score (CAPPS). The CAPPS scores allowed them to identify patients at high, low and extreme risks.

Opioid use was by far the most significant predictor for poor pain management after surgery. Previous research had suggested that opioid use can make pain management more difficult.

The study did not involve Rahul Shah M.D. FAAOS an orthopedic spine specialist at Premier Orthopedic Associates, Vineland NJ. You may not experience the same level of pain as other people, while you might feel lighter pains. It is not possible to test every single factor that can cause pain. The study excluded anxiety, catastrophizing, and kinesiophobia, which are all related to fear of movement. Researchers also acknowledged that the subjective nature of pain varies widely between people.

Knowing too little about the procedure can lead to increased pain. Knowing what to expect will better prepare you for any complications. Ask questions and expect a thorough explanation from your doctor. Discuss the possible medications that you may receive both before and following surgery, including side effects and addiction potential. Also discuss non-medication options for recovery.

“The reason for this is that if you are able to handle anesthesia and the stress the heart will experience, then you can do it,” explains Dr. Shah. You may be able to move more afterward if you are in good shape. This can reduce pain. Shah recommends that you gradually increase your walking time to 25-30 minutes, while raising your heartrate by 80% to 90%.

Back surgery and its recovery, no matter how prepared or healthy you may be, can cause you to miss work for some time. Plan ahead. Accept offers of help with chores or errands. You can rely on your loved ones even if it’s not easy for you.