How to treat mild burning in the abdomen area after having laparotomy?
Patient: I had a laparotomy 20 days ago.  I have been walking daily, usually 3-4, 30 minute walks, but I am experiencing a mild "burning" in the area of the incision along with the regular inflamation that goes along with the procedure.  Should I be icing the area, massage? Any suggestions, and is this normal. Doctor: Hi.Thanks for your query and an elucidate history.It is nice to know that you are walking after 20 days of Laparotomy.To have a mild burning pain is usually due to the nerve endings being cut during the procedure and caught during stitching and getting entrapped in the fibrosis which is a normal process of healing.  This is normal in many a patients an dwell, the response of the patient depends also on the pain-bearing capacity, that is tolerance too. This will get solved over the time over the next 3 to 4 weeks. Icing : try and continue if it helps. Plain paracetamol in an appropriate dose may help on the basis to be taken only if necessary. Massage should never be done as it may help temporarily but can alter the body's natural healing responses. Do not worry since you have only mild form of burning. You do not need any active treatment. Continue walking.