Pain relief is a critical part of post-surgical recovery. The right pain management plan can speed up healing, improve comfort, and reduce complications. Experts recommend multimodal analgesia, a strategy that combines opioids with other pain relief methods to minimize side effects and the risk of addiction.
However, new research suggests that Black patients are 29 percent less likely to receive multimodal pain relief than white patients. Instead, they are 74 percent more likely to be prescribed opioids alone, increasing their chances of experiencing unnecessary side effects or addiction risks.
This disparity raises an important question: How can Black patients ensure they receive the best possible pain care? This article explores why this gap exists, how multimodal analgesia works, and what Black patients can do to advocate for themselves or their loved ones.
What Is Multimodal Analgesia and Why Does It Matter?
1. The Basics of Multimodal Pain Relief
Multimodal analgesia refers to using multiple types of pain relief methods together instead of relying solely on opioids. Research shows that this approach:
- Provides better pain relief than opioids alone
- Reduces opioid use, lowering the risk of addiction
- Minimizes side effects such as nausea, constipation, and drowsiness
2. Common Components of Multimodal Pain Management
Instead of just prescribing opioids, doctors may combine them with other pain relievers such as:
| Pain Management Option | Description | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) | Anti-inflammatory painkillers | Reduce swelling and provide long-lasting pain relief |
| Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | Common over-the-counter pain reliever | Helps reduce fever and mild to moderate pain |
| Gabapentin or Pregabalin | Nerve pain medications | Useful for reducing nerve-related pain |
| Ketamine (IV or low-dose) | Non-opioid anesthetic | Helps with severe pain and reduces opioid use |
| Nerve blocks or epidurals | Direct injections of pain relievers near nerves | Provide targeted pain relief for specific body parts |
By combining these methods, patients can experience better pain control with fewer side effects.
Why Are Black Patients Less Likely to Receive Multimodal Pain Relief?
1. Bias in Pain Assessment
Studies have shown that doctors sometimes underestimate Black patients’ pain levels due to unconscious biases. Some medical professionals falsely believe that Black patients have a higher pain tolerance, leading to inadequate pain treatment.
2. Differences in Pain Communication
Pain is subjective, and different people express it in different ways. Black patients may describe their pain differently from how doctors expect, leading to misunderstandings about how much relief they need.
3. Lack of Awareness or Misinformation
- Some patients may not know that multimodal analgesia is an option and may not ask for it.
- Some doctors may not explain pain relief options fully, assuming opioids alone will be enough.
4. Systemic Healthcare Disparities
Racial disparities in healthcare access and treatment extend beyond pain management. A history of inadequate pain treatment for Black patients has led to distrust in the medical system, making some patients hesitant to ask for more options.
How You Can Advocate for Better Pain Management
If you or a loved one is undergoing surgery, taking an active role in your pain management plan can make a big difference. Here’s how:
1. Have the Pain Management Conversation Early
Before surgery, schedule a meeting with your surgeon or anesthesiologist and ask:
- “What is your plan for my post-surgical pain management?”
- “Can you include multimodal analgesia in my care?”
- “Are there non-opioid options available?”
2. Be Specific About Your Pain
Because Black patients’ pain is sometimes underestimated, it’s important to clearly communicate your discomfort:
- Use a pain scale (0-10) to describe your pain.
- Explain how the pain affects daily activities (e.g., “I can’t sleep,” or “I can’t move my arm”).
- If your pain isn’t well controlled, speak up and request adjustments.
3. Ask for Alternative Pain Relief Methods
If your doctor suggests opioids alone, ask if you can add:
- NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) for inflammation
- Acetaminophen for mild pain
- Nerve blocks or epidurals for localized relief
- Gabapentin if you have nerve pain
4. Bring a Trusted Advocate
Having a family member or friend present during discussions with your doctor can help:
- Ask important questions
- Ensure that your concerns are taken seriously
- Help follow up on the pain management plan
5. Follow Up on Your Care
Once you’re home, monitor how well your pain is controlled. If:
- Your pain is severe or worsening, call your doctor
- You experience opioid side effects (nausea, dizziness, constipation), ask about alternative pain relief
Addressing the Bigger Picture: Systemic Changes Needed
While individual advocacy is important, the healthcare system also needs to address these disparities. Some steps include:
- Medical training on bias: Educating doctors on racial disparities in pain management
- Standardized pain assessments: Using structured tools to prevent bias in pain evaluation
- Increasing patient awareness: Educating Black patients about multimodal pain relief options
By pushing for these changes, both patients and healthcare providers can work toward fair and effective pain management for all.
Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Pain Management
Every patient deserves the best possible pain care, regardless of race. If you or a loved one is preparing for surgery, knowing your rights and advocating for multimodal pain management can lead to better outcomes and a smoother recovery.
For more information on post-surgical pain relief, visit the Cleveland Clinic’s website or speak with a pain specialist before your procedure.
