Over the course of my life, I’ve undergone a few surgeries that required opioid medication for pain relief. Though each procedure was different, two things remained constant: the limited availability of alternative pain treatments and the persistently adverse impact that opioids had on my health.

After my first lumbar fusion surgery, it was clear to me why so many individuals become addicted to opioids – the relief, the indescribable pull to keep going back for more was ever present.

What was more unsettling than the addictive pull of opioids itself was the lack of communication from my health care provider. No one talked me through alternative pain medication treatment options or shared guidance on how to take the opioids safely. I didn’t know how long to take the medication, how to taper off them, and no one mentioned medications that might ease my withdrawal symptoms.

When I attempted to wean off my opioid prescription, I experienced both physical and mental symptoms that made my journey even more difficult. After a long battle, I fortunately came out on the other side without long-term dependence, but it changed my perception of pain management.

For my second lumbar fusion surgery, I came to my pre-op appointment prepared. I scheduled an hour-long appointment and talked in-depth about my options; I worked with my provider to develop a plan, and together we carried out that plan.

While I am grateful that my most recent doctor took the time to address all my concerns and questions about opioids, I recognize that many patients don’t have the information they need to begin the conversation or make an informed decision about their pain management treatment options. It’s time we advocate for a future where we can prevent addiction before it begins.