Key takeaways
Non-opioid medications and other pain-management approaches may be included as part of postoperative pain management plans.[1,3,7]
Multimodal pain management combines medications and non-medication strategies to help address pain from different angles.[1,3]
Acetaminophen and NSAIDs are commonly used components of non-opioid pain management plans when appropriate.[1,2,4]
Recovery strategies such as ice, elevation, movement, and physical therapy may also play an important role depending on the type of surgery.[1,5]
Always talk with your healthcare provider about managing pain after surgery.
Why Are People Looking for Alternatives to Opioids After Surgery?
Pain after surgery may be expected but concerns about opioid-related side effects and risks have led many patients and healthcare providers to explore additional pain management approaches as appropriate.[1,2]
Today, many surgical recovery plans use a multimodal approach that combines different types of pain relief to help support recovery.[1,3,7] Research has shown that combining multiple evidence-based pain management strategies may help address pain through different mechanisms rather than depending on a single treatment approach.[1,3]
Why Does Pain Happen After Surgery?
Pain after surgery can be a normal part of the body's healing process. Surgical procedures can affect tissues, nerves, muscles, and joints, which may trigger inflammation and discomfort during recovery.[6,7] The amount and duration of pain can vary depending on the type of procedure, the area of the body involved, and individual factors.[4,6]
What Are the Potential Risks of Opioids After Surgery?
Opioids can be appropriate in certain situations and may still be used after some procedures. However, they can be associated with side effects and risks that may affect recovery.[4,5]
Potential concerns may include, but are not limited to:[2,4,5]
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Nausea
Constipation
Impaired motor skills
Risk of misuse or dependence in some individuals
Because of these concerns, a postoperative plan may include non-opioid medications and other pain management strategies.[1,2] Talk with a healthcare provider about what option is appropriate for you.
What Is Multimodal Pain Management?
Multimodal pain management is an approach that combines different pain relief methods rather than relying on a single medication or therapy.[1,3,7]
A multimodal recovery plan may include:[1,2,3]
Acetaminophen
NSAIDs
Ice therapy
Elevation
Physical therapy
Early movement when appropriate
Other techniques recommended by a healthcare provider
The goal is to support pain relief by addressing pain through multiple pathways.[1,3]
What Non-Medication Strategies May Help During Recovery?
Medication may be only one part of recovery after surgery. Depending on the procedure and guidance from a healthcare provider, non-medication strategies may also play a role in pain management.[1,2]
Examples may include:[1,4,6]
Ice or cold therapy
Elevation
Physical therapy
Walking or movement when appropriate
Deep breathing exercises
Prioritizing sleep and rest
These approaches are often used alongside medication-based strategies as part of a comprehensive recovery plan.[1,3]
Are Opioids Necessary After Every Surgery?
Pain management needs can vary considerably based on the procedure, the individual, and the recovery process.[4,6]
Some surgeries may require opioid medications for a period of time for pain control, while others may be managed primarily with non-opioid approaches or multimodal recovery plans developed by a healthcare provider.[1,2,4] Nonopioid medication may not be appropriate for every patient or after every procedure.
Approaching pain management should be individualized to the patient and discussed with the healthcare provider before and after surgery.[4]
What Questions Can You Consider Asking Ask Your Healthcare Provider Before Surgery?
If you are planning for surgery, consider discussing the following questions with your healthcare provider:[4,6]
How much pain is typical after this procedure?
What non-opioid pain relief options may be available?
What non-medication approaches may help support recovery?
What side effects should I expect from pain medications?
When should I contact my healthcare provider about pain that is not improving?
These conversations can help set expectations and support a more informed recovery experience.[4]
FAQs
- Nonopioid Therapies for Pain Management, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (Accessed October 12, 2026), https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/hcp/clinical-care/nonopioid-therapies-for-pain-management.html
- Nonopioid Therapies, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (Accessed October 12, 2026), https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/manage-treat-pain/nonopioid-therapies.html
