Posted on February 14th, 2024

Surgery often comes with discomfort, and pain management is a crucial aspect of the recovery process. No one looks forward to it and for some people it can truly induce a state of dread and apprehension. Part of these feeling are associated directly with the pain one has to face while in recovery.

While painkillers are commonly prescribed to alleviate post-surgical pain, there are compelling reasons to explore alternative options. 

Let's delve into the reasons why avoiding painkillers after surgery may be beneficial for your overall health and well-being.

The Alarming Post-Surgery Pain Management Landscape

Following surgery, effective pain management is essential for promoting healing and ensuring a smooth recovery. However, the widespread use of opioids for pain relief has led to a concerning epidemic of addiction and overdose deaths. 

Let's explore some eye-opening statistics published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) that highlight the extended use of opioids in post-surgical management:

• In the United States, over 50 million surgical procedures are performed annually, contributing to the significant demand for pain relief medication.
• Approximately 6% to 10% of patients who undergo surgery develop persistent opioid use, leading to long-term dependence and addiction.
• Studies have found that up to 80% of patients undergoing major surgery receive opioids for post-operative pain management, contributing to the high prevalence of opioid prescriptions.
• Despite efforts to reduce opioid prescribing rates, opioid-related overdose deaths continue to rise, with over 70,000 fatalities reported in the United States in 2019 alone.
• Post-surgical patients are at increased risk of opioid misuse and addiction, particularly those with a history of substance abuse or mental health disorders.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for alternative approaches to post-surgery pain management that prioritize patient safety and minimize the risk of opioid-related harm. In the next section, we'll explore 7 reasons to avoid pain killers after surgery.

7 Reasons to Avoid Pain Killers After Surgery

While painkillers are commonly prescribed for post-surgical pain management, there are compelling reasons to consider alternative approaches. In this section, we'll explore seven key reasons why avoiding painkillers after surgery may be beneficial for your overall health and well-being.

1. Risk of Addiction

Painkillers, especially opioids, carry a significant risk of addiction. Prolonged use can lead to dependence and substance abuse, posing a serious threat to your physical and mental health.

2. Side Effects

Common side effects of painkillers include nausea, dizziness, constipation, and drowsiness. These side effects can disrupt your daily activities and impair your ability to function normally during the recovery period.

3. Increased Tolerance

Repeated use of painkillers can lead to tolerance, meaning that higher doses are required to achieve the same level of pain relief. This escalation in dosage can further exacerbate the risk of addiction and other adverse effects.

4. Delayed Healing

Some studies suggest that painkillers may interfere with the body's natural healing processes. By masking pain signals, painkillers may prevent you from recognizing and addressing potential complications or overexertion, delaying the overall healing process.

5. Gastrointestinal Issues

Prolonged use of painkillers, particularly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, bleeding, and gastritis. These issues can worsen existing health conditions and compromise your digestive system's integrity.

6. Liver and Kidney Damage

Certain painkillers, particularly those containing acetaminophen, can cause liver damage if taken in excessive doses or for extended periods. Additionally, long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to kidney damage and impaired renal function.

7. Risk of Overdose

Accidental overdose is a significant concern associated with painkiller use, especially when patients exceed prescribed dosages or combine painkillers with other substances such as alcohol. Overdose can have severe consequences, including respiratory depression, coma, and even death.

Considering these potential risks and drawbacks, exploring alternative pain management strategies is essential for promoting a safe and effective recovery after surgery.

Introducing SerenityStim 

At Serenity Springs Health, we understand the importance of effective pain management without the risks associated with traditional painkillers. That's why we're proud to offer SerenityStim —an innovative drug-free solution for post-surgical pain management.

SerenityStim utilizes cutting-edge technology to deliver targeted electrotherapy through the ear directly to the affected area, effectively alleviating pain and promoting healing without the need for medication. With customizable settings and easy-to-use features, SerenityStim offers a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free alternative to painkillers, allowing you to experience relief and recovery with peace of mind.

Related: What is the No Pain Act? Transforming Medicine's Opioid Use

Conclusion

Navigating post-surgery pain management requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits associated with painkillers. While opioids are commonly prescribed for pain relief, their widespread use has led to a concerning epidemic of addiction and overdose deaths. 

At Serenity Springs Health & Wellness, we understand the importance of safe and effective pain management without the risks associated with traditional painkillers. That's why we offer SerenityStim —a revolutionary alternative to opioids for post-surgical pain management.

If you're ready to explore drug-free pain management options for your post-surgical recovery, don't hesitate to contact us at (501) 762-1123 or email us at [email protected]. Our knowledgeable team is here to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best solution for your pain management needs. 

Get in Touch Now!

Take the first step towards a safer and more comfortable recovery journey with Serenity Springs Health.