Can I take pain relievers for a long time after joint fusion for swollen and painful legs?

3 years ago, I fell off my bike and had a cast with traditional medicine but the bone did not heal. At that time, I was 58 years old, so I had surgery twice to fuse the joint. However, every time the weather changes, my ankle and foot (the joint) swell, become painful and difficult to walk. So what should I do, doctor? Can I take painkillers during these times?

(Mrs. Dinh Thi Nam, residing in Tan Phong ward, Bien Hoa city)

Doctor replied:

Hello!

According to what you described, the swelling and pain in the ankle and foot area (the surgical area) every time the weather changes can be related to one of the following two causes: post-traumatic ankle arthritis or ankle arthritis due to other causes (gouty arthritis, osteoarthritis)...

To determine the exact cause, you should soon go to a medical facility with a musculoskeletal specialist to examine and find the exact cause, from which there will be a more optimal treatment method.

About taking painkillers:

• In case of severe pain that affects daily activities, you can use painkillers but should not take them for more than 5 days and the dose should be reduced if you have kidney failure, liver failure...
• If you have underlying medical conditions such as liver failure, kidney failure, or stomach disease, you should discuss carefully with your doctor before using, or choose a more suitable medication.
• Never abuse painkillers for a long time, because it can cause complications in the kidneys, liver, digestive system or cardiovascular system.

The doctor has some additional advice for you: When there is a period of swelling and pain, you should rest, limit movement, and apply cold compresses gently for the first 48 hours. If the swelling persists or the pain increases, you should see a doctor soon for a thorough assessment.
In addition, you should also consider specialized physical therapy (as prescribed by your doctor) to help reduce pain and maintain flexible movement. At the same time, supplement with proper nutrition, especially foods rich in calcium, vitamin D and drink enough water every day to support bone and joint health.

I wish you a speedy recovery, easy mobility and a more comfortable life.

Specialist Doctor 1 Tran Duc Chinh,

Department of Orthopedics, Ai Nghia Medical System

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/alo--bac-si-oi/202504/chan-sung-dau-sau-khi-han-khop-co-the-uong-thuoc-giam-dau-keo-dai-duoc-khong-a450f5d/