Pain in Stitches: A Doctor’s Perspective

Stitches are a necessary part of healing after surgery or an injury. While they hold the skin together and support proper wound healing, they often come with pain, tightness, or discomfort—and that’s completely normal. But how do you know if the pain you’re experiencing is part of the healing process or a sign that something isn’t right?

As a doctor, I’ve seen many patients worry about the pain in their stitches—some fearing infection, others simply unsure of what to expect. This guide will help you understand:

✔ Why stitches can hurt

✔ How to manage pain at home

✔ Warning signs of infection or complications

✔ When to call your doctor

By the end of this, you’ll have a clear roadmap for recovery and confidence in knowing when to seek medical help.

Why Do Stitches Hurt?

Not all pain in stitches is cause for concern. In most cases, the discomfort is part of the body’s natural healing process. Here’s why:

1. Inflammation is a Normal Part of Healing

After an injury or surgery, your body sends immune cells to the wound to repair the damaged tissue. This leads to:

  • Mild swelling around the stitches
  • Tenderness when touched
  • A slight pulling sensation when moving

This inflammatory phase usually lasts a few days and then improves.

2. Stitches Create Tension on the Skin

Sutures pull the skin together, which is why they may feel tight or slightly uncomfortable, especially when stretching the area.

3. The Healing Process Increases Sensitivity

Nerves near the wound may become more sensitive as new tissue forms. You might feel a tingling or mild itching as the skin heals.

All of the above are normal. However, if pain worsens after a few days, or if the area becomes red, swollen, or warm to the touch, it may indicate a problem.

Signs That Pain in Stitches May Indicate a Problem

While some discomfort is expected, severe pain or changes in your wound shouldn’t be ignored. Watch for these red flags:

1. Infection in Stitches

If pain increases instead of decreasing after a few days, an infection may be developing. Look out for:

  • Redness spreading beyond the wound
  • Yellow or green discharge (pus)
  • A foul smell from the stitches
  • Fever or swollen lymph nodes

Infected stitches require medical attention and possibly antibiotics to prevent complications.

2. Stitches That Are Too Tight

If your stitches feel overly tight or cause sharp, pulling pain with movement, they may need adjustment or early removal. This is common in areas where the skin stretches a lot, like the knees, elbows, or abdomen.

3. Wound Dehiscence (Stitches Coming Apart)

Pain that suddenly worsens along with a reopening of the wound is a serious concern. This can happen if:

  • You overexert yourself too soon
  • The wound was not healing properly
  • There was excessive tension on the stitches

If your stitches break open, cover the area with a clean cloth and seek medical attention immediately.

How to Manage Pain in Stitches at Home

If your pain is mild to moderate and there are no signs of infection, these steps can help ease discomfort and support healing:

1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry

  • Wash the wound gently with mild soap and water (unless instructed otherwise).
  • Pat dry with a clean towel—do not rub the stitches.
  • Avoid applying hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they can slow healing.

2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

3. Use Ice Packs to Reduce Swelling

  • Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the area for 10-15 minutes at a time.
  • Do this several times a day for the first 48 hours.

4. Avoid Excessive Movement

  • If your stitches are on a joint (like the knee or elbow), limit unnecessary bending or stretching.
  • For abdominal stitches, avoid lifting heavy objects or sudden movements.

5. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet for Faster Healing

  • Protein-rich foods (eggs, chicken, fish, tofu) help rebuild tissue.
  • Vitamin C-rich fruits (oranges, kiwi, strawberries) aid in collagen production.
  • Stay hydrated—water supports cellular healing.

How Long Should Stitches Hurt?

The timeline for pain and healing varies based on wound size, location, and individual factors:

  • Minor cuts or small surgical wounds – Pain lasts 3-5 days.
  • Larger incisions or deep wounds – Discomfort may persist for 1-2 weeks.
  • Stitches in high-tension areas (like joints) – May feel sore for longer due to movement.

Most stitches are removed in 7-14 days, depending on the type of wound. Dissolvable stitches disappear on their own over several weeks to months.

When to Call Your Doctor

You should seek medical help if you experience:

Pain that worsens instead of improving after a few days

Red, swollen, or pus-filled stitches

A fever above 100.4°F (38°C)

Wound edges pulling apart

Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious complications, including deep infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is It Normal for Stitches to Hurt?

Yes, mild discomfort and tightness are normal, especially in the first few days. However, severe or worsening pain could signal a problem.

2. Can I Shower with Stitches?

Most patients can shower 24-48 hours after getting stitches, but baths, pools, and hot tubs should be avoided until stitches are removed.

3. Why Do My Stitches Hurt More at Night?

Pain can feel worse at night due to:

  • Swelling that builds up throughout the day
  • Reduced movement, leading to stiffness
  • Increased awareness of pain when lying still

Applying an ice pack before bed can help.

4. What If My Stitches Break Open?

A partially or fully opened wound needs immediate medical attention. Cover the area with a clean cloth and contact your doctor.

5. How Can I Reduce Scarring After Stitches Heal?

  • Keep the wound moisturized once stitches are removed.
  • Apply sunscreen to prevent dark scars.
  • Gently massage the area once fully healed to promote smooth tissue formation.

6. What are stitches and what is their purpose?

Stitches, or sutures, close and heal wounds. They are made of strong, sterile thread. This thread is sewn through the skin to close the wound.

Stitches help the skin heal right. They also reduce scarring and prevent infection by keeping the wound closed.

7. Can you get stitches wet?

Drs  say to keep stitches dry for the first 48 hours. This helps the skin heal well. After 48 hours, it’s okay to get stitches wet lightly.

But avoid soaking the area for about 4 weeks. Keeping stitches dry helps prevent infection.

8. Should you keep stitches covered?

Doctors suggest leaving the initial dressing on for 2-3 days. After that, you don’t need to cover the stitches.

Just keep the area clean. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or antibacterial ointments. Clean with mild soap and water if needed.

9. Why are my stitches itchy?

Itchiness is normal when stitches are healing. Inflammatory cells release chemicals that can itch.

Damaged nerves or reactions to the suture material can also cause itch. But, a bad itch could mean infection. See a doctor if it gets worse.

10. What are the signs of infected stitches?

Signs of infection: more redness, itchiness, tenderness, drainage, and fever. A little redness is okay, but more is not.

If you see these signs, contact your doctor. An infected wound might need stitches removed, cleaning, and antibiotics.

11. How long do stitches typically stay in?

Stitches stay in for different times, depending on the type and where they are. Dissolvable stitches go away on their own.

Permanent stitches on the skin are removed in about 2 weeks. The time can vary, especially for face stitches to reduce scarring. Your doctor will tell you how long for yours.

12. What are the risks of leaving stitches in too long?

Stitches left in too long can cause problems. The skin may grow over them, making removal hard and leading to more scarring.

Removing stitches at the right time is key for healing and avoiding bad outcomes.

13. Can you exercise with stitches?

Avoid hard exercise or activities that stress the stitches for 4-6 weeks. This lets the tissue heal fully.

Your doctor will tell you which activities to avoid. This prevents the stitches from coming undone or damaging the wound further.

14. When should you seek medical attention for a wound?

See a doctor for deep cuts, animal or human bites, signs of infection, wounds not healing, or if you have diabetes. Quick medical care is important for healing and avoiding complications.

Final Thoughts: Taking Care of Your Stitches for a Smooth Recovery

Pain in stitches is a common concern, but most discomfort is temporary and manageable. The key to a smooth recovery is proper wound care, infection prevention, and knowing when to seek medical attention.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Mild pain and swelling are normal, but worsening pain could be a red flag.

✔ Keep stitches clean and dry to prevent infection.

✔ Avoid excessive movement that could pull on the sutures.

✔ If you notice redness, pus, fever, or severe pain, call your doctor immediately.

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, it’s always better to consult your doctor rather than wait. A little caution goes a long way in ensuring safe and effective healing.