Here are some things you can do to support your child's pain control.
Work with your child's healthcare team to assess your child's need for pain control.
Often children don't say when they are in pain, or they do not know how to express or describe their pain. Sometimes they don't say anything because of their culture or age. Appearances can be misleading. For instance, children may be in real pain even if they are not crying. Your child's team can help you figure out how your child is doing with pain.
Talk with your child's doctor if you have any concerns about the use of pain medicines.
It is very, very rare for children to get more pain medicine than they need or to get addicted to pain medicine. Children can get used to their pain medicines, which means they need more to get the same amount of relief. But they do not have the craving that is part of addiction.
Tell your child's doctor if you are using any other methods to control pain, such as any herbs.
Some herbs (or other methods) may react with the methods used by your child's team. Some methods may help. Together, you and your child's doctor can make a safe plan that works for your child. Read more about using complementary and integrative medicine.