RICE treatment can help with discomfort after prostate cancer surgery.
The RICE treatment has been used for sprains, strains and sports injuries. It can also be used after prostate cancer surgery, to help relieve the discomfort in the surgical area. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
Rest
After prostate cancer surgery it is important to rest the area as much as possible by not sitting for long periods of time. Patients should also avoid standing or walking too much. For the first two months, do not lift or try to carry any heavy objects. In addition, avoid any strain on the abdominal or pelvic muscles. Eating a diet rich in fiber will help prevent any such straining during a bowel movement.
Ice
Ice packs can relieve swelling and discomfort in the area after surgery. Ice should be used in an icepack wrapped in a cloth---never on bare skin or near the site of the surgical wound.
Compression
Applying compresses to the affected area can help reduce bruising and swelling, two of the main causes of pain after a radical prostatectomy. Swelling will vary depending on the size and location of the incision to remove the prostate. Apply pressure gently to the area. A bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth may be used as a more flexible kind of cold compress in the surgical area.
Elevation
After surgery, patients may wish to elevate their legs and hips in order to try to reduce swelling. This can be accomplished in a hospital bed or at home by propping up the hips and legs with pillows. Patients can also raise the foot of their bed.
Tags: cancer surgery, prostate cancer, prostate cancer surgery, surgical area
