Managing Pain After Surgery

What to expect and how to stay comfortable 

At Banner Health, we want to help you feel as comfortable as possible during your recovery. Our care team is here to make sure you heal quickly, stay safe and get ahead of the pain. We use the latest medications and treatment methods to manage pain after surgery, so you can focus on getting back on your feet. 

What should I know about pain after surgery? 

Knowing what to expect after surgery can help you better manage your pain. Before your procedure, talk with your doctor about: 

• Any medication allergies you have 
• What has worked or not worked for you in the past 
• Side effects you’ve experienced from medications 
• Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you take 

Sharing this information helps your doctor create the best plan for your comfort and recovery. 

How is pain managed in the hospital? 

During your hospital stay, our pain management specialists are available 24/7 to support you. After surgery, your nurse will regularly ask you: 

• How much pain you are in (on a scale of 0 to 10) 
• Where the pain is located 
• What the pain feels like 

Be honest about your pain—this helps us treat it more effectively. Pain medicine works best when taken before the pain becomes severe. You don’t need to "tough it out" after surgery. 

What types of pain medication are used after surgery? 

There are several types of medications that can be used to help manage pain while you recover, including: 

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 
• Local anesthetics 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Includes aspirin, naproxen (Aleve), and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) 

Your care team will choose the best option based on your needs, medical history and the type of surgery you had. 

How is pain medication given after surgery? 

You can receive pain medication in different ways, depending on your situation: 

• At scheduled times 
• As needed, when requested 
• Through patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) – lets you control when you receive pain relief 
• Through patient-controlled epidural analgesia – pain relief delivered near your spine 

Your Banner Health surgical team will guide you on the safest and most effective method for you. 

We’re here to support your recovery 

Managing your pain is a key part of your recovery journey. We’ll be with you every step of the way—from your hospital stay to when you return home. If you have questions or concerns about pain management after surgery, talk to your doctor or Banner Health care team.