Type of pain post-op?

[sibby7]

Hello, I wanted to know what type of pain you experienced after decompression surgery. Please, don't share horror stories here, I am just wondering, in general, what type of pain you experienced and where. I keep wondering if its going to be a throbbing type of thing or stabbing, head-ache like? etc... I imagine it changes by the day... Also any stories on the best pain management in hospital and at home is greatly appreciated. Ive only had pain meds when I had my wisdom teeth removed and even though I know that is small beans compared to this, I know what worked and what didn't... THANK YOU!

[Elisaandbucky]

Hello. I had my surgery at the end of July. My neck pain and limited range of mobility were considerable presurgery, and now, 6 months later, I have experienced about the same level of pain. My head pain has been very seldom, and my nausea has greatly subsided. As Selma states above, be aware of the reality of taking the necessary time to allow for recovery from such a sensitive surgery. Whenever I am very busy and try to accomplish too much, my neck pain intensifies and I am reminded to ease up on my activity level. A question you may have that I can answer to give you some honest perspective is "am I glad that I had the surgery." I am completely sure that having the surgery was the best thing for me. I would also have further surgery if necessary - because (and this is a key thing) my surgeon was a true specialist in Chiari and knew the most current information on surgical procedure and pain management.

Immediately after my surgery, I was given the heavy narcotic meds that definitely ease the pain. However, even on an extremely small dosage (I cut the pill in half), I slept for hours and hours. I discontinued them and when the doctor said it was ok, I switched from Tylenol to Advil. Your doctor definitely will tell you exactly what types of pain meds you can take, and I had to discontinue all ibuprofen just before the surgery (30 days). I hope you can feel more confident in your decision. Good luck. Keep current with your posts so we can know how to help you.

[selmaS]

  Hi...what pain you have post op will depend on you and your ability or inability to deal with pain..since you know what pain meds worked for you b4, share that with your NS..

In the hospital they had me on a drip of morphine and gave me a button to push for when I needed more....I was so out of it and sleeping I was not pushing the button so the nurses kept on doing it as they can see when I do or do not push the button for more....my meds eventually had to be changed as I had a reaction to the morphine....outside of that ....I do not recall a specific pain....just being uncomfortable and the nausea from the morphine....kinda like when I had my daughter....I do not remember pain ...just happy with the results.

Recovery from this surgery can take time ,so do not rush to get back to a "normal" lifestyle...listen to your body and rest, rest and rest some more.

Also add your surgery date to the List your surgery date thread so a prayer thread can be posted for you....sending you all the best <3