Managing Pain After Surgery
Pain and swelling are expected after many orthopedic procedures. Your post-operative pain plan may include a combination of medications, ice or cold therapy, elevation, and physical therapy.

• Take medications as directed by your surgical team.

• Begin pain medication as instructed rather than waiting until pain becomes severe.

• Use ice or cold therapy as directed to help reduce pain and swelling.

• Avoid driving while taking opioid pain medication.

• As your recovery progresses, your need for pain medication should decrease.

Wound Care
Proper wound care helps reduce the risk of infection.

• Keep your surgical dressing and incision clean and dry according to your post-operative instructions.

• Do not apply lotions, creams, or ointments directly to the incision unless instructed to do so.

• Avoid soaking the incision in a bathtub, pool, or other body of water until your surgical team confirms that it is safe.

• Follow your specific instructions regarding dressing changes, showering, and suture or staple removal.

Some drainage, bruising, and swelling can be normal after surgery. Contact our office if you notice increasing redness, drainage, significant swelling, fever, or other concerning changes.

Swelling & Elevation
Swelling is common following orthopedic surgery and can persist for several weeks.

• Elevate the operated extremity when resting.

• Use ice or cold therapy as instructed.

• Avoid remaining in the same position for prolonged periods.

• Begin walking and performing exercises as directed by your surgical and physical therapy teams.

• For knee surgery, follow your specific positioning instructions to maintain and restore knee motion.