Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 18, 2025

09:51
The Transition to an Anterior-Based Muscle Sparing Approach Improves Early Postoperative Function but is Associated with a Learning Curve
Published on: September 7, 2022
3.3K
Editorial Commentary: Hip Arthroscopists Can Reduce Postoperative Opioid Use
Ashley Disantis1, RobRoy Martin2
1Duquesne University.
Summary
Opioid use for musculoskeletal pain, including hip arthroscopy patients, is common. Promoting physical therapy and alternative therapies can decrease opioid reliance for better pain management.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Pain Management
- Public Health
Background:
- Musculoskeletal pain, particularly femoracetabular impingement syndrome, often leads to widespread opioid use.
- Approximately one-third of hip arthroscopy patients use opioids preoperatively, and postoperative use is standard practice.
- The rising incidence of hip arthroscopy exacerbates the need for alternative pain management strategies.
Discussion:
- Surgeons and allied health professionals must promote non-opioid pain relief methods.
- Early physical therapy can reduce postoperative opioid use by up to 10%.
- Integrating complementary and alternative therapies is crucial in orthopaedics.
Key Insights:
- Opioid consumption for musculoskeletal pain remains high despite the ongoing opioid crisis.
- Hip arthroscopy patients frequently require pain management, often with opioids.
- Multimodal pain management strategies are essential for reducing opioid dependence.
Outlook:
- Widespread adoption of physical therapy and alternative therapies can mitigate opioid use.
- Collaborative efforts between medical professionals are vital to address the opioid crisis.
- Shifting towards non-opioid pain management is a critical step for the medical community.

