Some pain after spine surgery is expected, and it eases bit by bit. Taking your medicines on time, walking often and resting between walks all help. This page explains your painkillers, how to use them safely and what else eases pain.
Reviewed by Dr. Kshitij Chaudhary, Last reviewed November 2026
At our spine clinic at P.D. Hinduja Hospital, Mahim, Mumbai, we plan your pain medicines before you go home. This page explains how to take them safely. If your surgeon gave you different instructions, follow those first.
Is pain normal after spine surgery?
Yes. You can expect soreness at the wound and muscle spasm. Arm or leg pain can last a while as the nerve settles. It is often worse when you do more. It should ease a little each week.
Which painkillers will I be given?
- Paracetamol is the usual first medicine. Take it regularly as prescribed. Never take more than the dose on your prescription. Many cold and fever tablets also contain paracetamol, so read the label.
- Tramadol is for stronger pain, for a short time. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and constipation.
- A stronger painkiller, such as a buprenorphine patch, is sometimes used for a short period. Use it exactly as prescribed, and keep heat away from the patch.
- Anti-inflammatory tablets (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or diclofenac, are used only for younger patients with healthy kidneys and stomachs who have not had a fusion. If you had a fusion, do not take them, because they can slow bone healing. Do not buy them from a chemist on your own.
How should I take my painkillers?
- Take them on time, at regular times for the first few days, not only when the pain is bad. Pain is easier to control early, and tablets can take up to 30 minutes to work.
- Take a dose before walking or physiotherapy, and one at bedtime so pain does not wake you.
- Never drink alcohol with them. Do not use leftover tablets, or medicines from other doctors, without telling us.
- Tell us about any ayurvedic or herbal medicine before you start it.
- Rate your pain from 0 to 10. Tell us if your medicines do not control it.
How do I cut down on painkillers?
Cut down slowly as your pain settles. Stop the strongest medicine first and keep paracetamol for longer. Aim to need a little less each week. If the pain comes back, go back to your last dose and tell us.
What side effects should I watch for?
- Constipation is the commonest. Drink plenty of fluids, eat fibre-rich food and walk often. If it keeps bothering you, ask us or your pharmacist about a laxative. See Food and Constipation After Spine Surgery.
- Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea or itching. Stand up slowly, and tell us if these last.
- Very slow breathing, extreme sleepiness or confusion need the emergency department straight away.
Can I drive while taking painkillers?
No. Tramadol and stronger painkillers slow your reactions. Do not drive a car or ride a two-wheeler while taking them. Your surgeon will tell you when you can drive again. See Travel After Spine Surgery.
What else helps?
- Walk short distances often, and lie down to rest between walks. Staying in bed all day makes stiffness worse. See Walking After Spine Surgery.
- Ice can ease muscle spasm. Wrap ice or a gel pack in a thin cloth and hold it on the sore muscle for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Warmth can help too. Use a warm (not hot) water bag wrapped in a towel for 10 to 15 minutes. Never sleep with it on.
- Keep ice and heat away from the wound, and away from numb skin, which can burn or freeze without you feeling it.
- Take slow, deep breaths for a few minutes to ease tense muscles.
- Sleep in a supported position.
When should I call you about pain?
Call us if pain is severe and not eased by rest, medicines, ice or warmth, if you notice new numbness or weakness, or if you have calf pain or swelling. See When to Call Us After Spine Surgery for the full list.
Other resources
Sleeping Postures After Your Spine Surgery, Everyday Body Mechanics: Move Well and Protect Your Spine, The Back Pain Guide, Wound Care and Showering After Spine Surgery, and your rehab plan: Rehab protocol following lumbar discectomy, Rehab protocol following lumbar decompression or Rehab protocol following lumbar fusion.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Please see a doctor for advice about your own symptoms.