Treating Your Pain Following A Bunionectomy
Bunions can be incredibly painful. Fortunately, surgery is an option for removing a bunion and starting you on the path to healing. The surgery to relieve a bunion is commonly referred to as a bunionectomy.
Unfortunately, though a bunionectomy treatment can ultimately provide you with long-term pain relief, the surgery and its recovery process does typically involve some pain and discomfort.
Your doctor may prescribe certain painkillers to help you ease this pain. However, some of these painkillers may be addictive in nature, which is why it's better to try natural or non-opioid pain relief options as an alternative whenever possible.
Opt For Over-The-Counter Options
While using the strong and potentially habit-forming medications that may be prescribed by your doctor can be tempting, try over-the-counter options first.
These options, providing you have no medical conditions or other issues that would prevent you from taking them, can sometimes be just as effective as prescription medications without all the risks and side effects.
Try nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as Naproxen or Ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation. If these options don't work for you for whatever reason, talk to your doctor about other over-the-counter choices, such as Tylenol, that may be suitable.
Rest Often
Following your bunionectomy, it's easy to simply pop a prescription pill every time you don't feel your best.
However, getting some rest is sometimes a much better solution.
Your body needs plenty of sleep and downtime to recover after an invasive and difficult surgery. When possible, instead of turning to strong medications, turn to some good, old-fashioned sleep and relaxation instead.
Use Ice
Pain at the surgical site and swelling are common following a bunionectomy.
As a result, icing the affected area is a great solution for reducing pain and also bringing down any swelling you may notice.
Wrap ice in a towel or even a shirt and then apply it to the affected area for ten minutes or so. Remove and repeat if desired.
You'll be shocked at how much this simple tip can bring down swelling and reduce pain, all without taking potentially dangerous medications.
The bottom line is that for most people, especially those with an addiction problem, natural or alternative treatments following a bunionectomy are much better than using opioids. Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment options for your specific needs and situation, but also don't be afraid to try these simple tips so that you can feel better without introducing harsh drugs into your already-fragile body.
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