Is Limb Lengthening Painful?
Short answer
Yes, there is pain, but it is manageable. It is strongest in the first days after surgery and during the lengthening phase. At that stage it comes mainly from stretching muscles and nerves, not from the bone. It is controlled with medication, physiotherapy and by adjusting the lengthening speed. Most patients describe it as tightness and soreness, not constant severe pain.
Pain after surgery
The first 2 to 3 days are the most painful. Pain is controlled in hospital with regular painkillers and, when needed, stronger medication. Most patients stand with the physiotherapist within the first days.
Pain during lengthening
Once lengthening starts, the bone itself hurts little. The discomfort comes from stretching muscles, tendons and nerves. It often feels like tightness or cramping and can be worse at night and after physiotherapy. It usually rises towards the end of the lengthening phase.
Pain during consolidation
After lengthening stops, pain usually drops week by week. Most patients need only occasional painkillers.
How we manage it
• A regular medication plan, adjusted at each visit: painkiller combinations (tramadol, codeine and paracetamol), plus antibiotics and blood thinners
• Physiotherapy 6 days a week, which reduces tightness
• Slowing the lengthening if the soft tissues need time
• Sleep positioning and, when needed, splints
LON vs internal nail
With LON, the frame and pin sites add day-to-day discomfort. With PRECICE or FITBONE, there is no frame, but the muscle stretch is similar.
When to call us
Sudden severe pain, numbness, burning in the foot, calf swelling or fever. Contact us the same day on WhatsApp.