Pain After Lateral Release

by Luke
(CO, US)

I had an arthroscopic lateral release surgery seven weeks ago. My main problem is pain. The doctors first had me on Vicodin and then switched me to Tramadol/Ultram because the Vicodin didn't help with the pain and it gave me an upset stomach.

Now, seven weeks out, the pain is the same as after the surgery and I find it makes physical therapy more difficult. My doctor told me to just go without the meds so as not to risk addiction and because the Tramadol doesn't affect me.

I'm not concerned about addiction. I'm concerned about pain levels. I ice it, take ibuprofen, etc and nothign helps. What should I do? How do I work around this? I understand pain is to be expected, but for how long and at what levels?

Thank you for your time.

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Pain After Lateral Release

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Apr 22, 2008
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hang in there...
by: Bart - SII

Lateral release surgeries can be very painful for long periods of time. This is especially true if you have a lot of persistent swelling, and if you were having a lot of knee pain before surgery.

If you are doing phyical therapy, make sure that your therapist is not so centered in on the knee that they are neglecting strengthening of the hips and core. Sometimes we focus in too much on the knee and overlook other areas that need to be worked on. Happens all the time.

Talk about your concerns with your doctor and your therapist and find out why you aren't progressing and specifically what you can do differently to make better progress.

Sometimes patellar taping or braces may help after this procedure. Other things to consider are your foot mechanics and shoe wear.

I know this recovery can be difficult, and it seems like it will never get better. It is not uncommon to have pain at this time, but if it doesn't start improving soon, you should re-evaluate your rehabilitation and make sure it is focusing on the right areas.

Hope this helps - comment back with other questions.