Managing Post-Op Pain at Home: Non-Medication Relief
Medications are not the only way to manage pain after surgery. Try the following techniques.
Ice or Heat
Use the one checked below as needed (but for no longer than 20 minutes at a time):
Visualization
Visualization helps take your mind off the pain:
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Close your eyes. Breathe deeply.
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Picture yourself in a quiet, peaceful place.
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Imagine how you feel in that place.
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If other thoughts enter your mind, take a deep breath and try again.
Progressive Body Relaxation
Relaxation helps relieve stress and pain:
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Close your eyes. Clench your foot muscles.
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Hold for a few seconds. Release.
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Repeat with the muscles in your calves.
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Work slowly up your body.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing relaxes your whole body:
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Inhale slowly and deeply as you count to 5.
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Hold your breath for a couple of seconds.
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Exhale through your mouth as you count to 10.
Date Last Reviewed:
6/1/2005
Date Last Modified:
6/1/2005