Surgery recovery is not always a straightforward process, and post-surgical pain management is part of the recovery process. While prescription medication is used most often, it comes with side effects and complications such as dependency and stomach upset. Fortunately, there are a few non-pharmacologic pain relief tools that will reduce pain, accelerate healing, and enhance wellness.

Here are four of the best post-surgery tools discussed in this blog: TENS devices, ice packs, heat wraps, and pain relief gels. These devices provide efficient, medication-free pain relief and can greatly boost your recovery process.

List of Post-Surgery Tools:

1. TENS Units – A New Pain Relief Tool

What is a TENS unit?

A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit is a battery-operated low-voltage device that delivers electrical impulses to parts of the body. The electrical signals are employed to inhibit pain signals to the brain, induce the release of endorphins (the body’s own painkillers), and enhance blood flow.

How TENS Units Help After Surgery

TENS therapy is widely applied in the treatment of post-operative pain, chronic pain syndromes, and rehabilitation of muscles. It is usually prescribed by most doctors and physiotherapists as part of a multi-modal therapy to treat pain. Some of the fundamental advantages are:

• Drug-free, non-invasive pain reduction – Sidesteps the side effects of opioid drugs.
• Adjustable intensity levels – Users can tailor to their level of tolerance.
• Lightweight and handy – Can be worn during light exercise, promoting mobility.
• Relaxes muscle spasms and swelling – Promotes general comfort and recovery.

Most Effective Post-Surgery Applications of TENS Devices

TENS devices work most effectively with:

✔ Rehabilitation following knee or hip replacement surgery

✔ Following lower back surgery

✔ Pain management for C-section

✔ Rotator cuff and shoulder surgery

✔ Abdominal and hernia surgery

Using a TENS Unit Correctly

• Get permission from your doctor before using, particularly if you have heart disease or a pacemaker.
• Never apply electrodes to an incision or broken skin area.
• Treat for 20–30 minutes and repeat 3–4 times a day.
• Always begin at the lowest intensity and be prepared to turn it up as necessary.

2. Ice Packs – Minimizing Swelling and Numbing Pain

Why Ice Therapy is Useful After Surgery

Ice therapy is among the most effective ways to reduce swelling, numb pain, and minimize inflammation following surgery. When ice is applied to the swollen area, it makes the blood vessels tighten, thus reducing blood supply and halting excessive swelling.

Best Surgery Recovery Ice Packs

✔ Gel ice packs – Soft and pliable, making it so simple to mold them around surgical areas or joints.

✔ Reusable cold packs – Cheap and environmentally friendly ones kept in the refrigerator.

✔ Instant cold packs – Handy to have on hand when away from home or for spontaneous pain relief without fridge storage space.

When and How to Use Ice Packs Properly for Pain Management

• Use 15-20 minute ice packs 2–3 hours apart for the first 24-78 hours post-surgery.
• Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel at all times to protect against irritating skin and causing frostbite.
• Unless instructed otherwise, do not put ice directly on the incision.
• Use with moderation after 48 hours to allow normal tissue recovery and blood circulation.

Surgeries That Prove to Work Best with Ice Therapy

✔ Joint and knee replacement surgery

✔ Plastic (e.g., liposuction, rhinoplasty) surgery

✔ Dental procedures (e.g., removal of wisdom teeth)

✔ Ligament repair and surgery for sprains

3. Heating Pads – Promoting Circulation and Relaxation

How Heat Therapy Aids in Recovery

Whereas ice packs are helpful after surgery, heat therapy takes over once the initial inflammation has subsided. Heating pads work by promoting circulation, relaxing tense muscles, and promoting overall comfort.

When to Turn from Ice to Heat Treatment

• First 48 hours – Use ice packs to minimize swelling.
• At or after 48 hours – Use heat therapy to relieve pain, tightness, and tension.

Best Heating Pads for Relief of Post-Surgery Recovery

✔ Electric heat pads – Offer consistent heat with adjustable temperatures.

✔ Microwaveable heat packs – Rice or gel-filled, moist heat for penetrating deeper.

✔ Infrared heat pads – Provide deep tissue penetration for greater relief from pain.

Safe Use of a Heating Pad

• Never put direct heat onto an incision or new surgical wounds.
• Use the heating pad for 15-20 minutes at a time to prevent burns.
• Opt for a low to medium heat setting to avoid skin damage.
• Combine heat therapy with gentle movement to ease stiffness.

Surgeries That Benefit the Most from Heat Therapy

✔ Back and spinal surgery

✔ Shoulder and orthopedic surgery

✔ Muscle and soft tissue procedures

✔ Abdominal surgeries, such as C-sections

4. Pain Relief Gels—Quick, Targeted Pain Relief

How Pain Relief Gels Work

Pain killing creams and gels provide local anesthesia by topically applying active components directly to tender or inflamed tissues. The gels include:

• Menthol – Gives a cold sensation that numbs pain.
• Lidocaine – Mild anesthetic that inhibits transmission of pain messages.
• Capsaicin – A chili pepper derivative that desensitizes pain receptors.
• Anti-inflammatory drugs – Like ibuprofen or diclofenac, which decrease swelling.

Advantages of Applying Pain Relief Gels After Surgery

✔ Quick action and simple application

✔ Non-greasy preparations for comfort and convenience

✔ No danger of addiction like oral pain medications

✔ Can be combined with other treatments such as ice or TENS units

Optimal Use of Pain Relief Gels

• Use a thin layer on the affected area and gently massage it in.
• Avoid use on open wounds or stitches.
• Use only as directed to prevent skin irritation.
• Wash hands gently following use to prevent accidental eye contact.

Surgical Procedures That Can be Paired with Pain Relief Gels

✔ Orthopedic surgery (joint replacement, ACL reconstruction)

✔ Minor surgical procedures paired with muscle pain

✔ Liposuction and plastic surgery post-op

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Most Effective Pain Management Devices

Surgery recovery is a process, and choosing the most effective pain relief methods can have a direct bearing on your recovery and comfort. TENS units, ice packs, heat pads, and ointments for pain relief are all effective in their own right and can be combined for peak relief.

Rapid Review: Best Device for You

✔ TENS Unit – Most appropriate for chronic pain and muscle rehabilitation.

✔ Ice Packs – Ideal for acute post-operative swelling and pain.

✔ Heating Pads – Most appropriate for stiffness and general long-term pain relief.

✔ Pain Relief Gels – Best suited for localized, spot-specific pain relief.

Always go talk to your doctor first before you even attempt using any pain relief device to see if it’s good for your individual recovery. Doing it right can decrease pain, heal more quickly, and get you back on your way in no time!

What methods of pain relief have worked for you? Tell us in the comments!