Non-Opioid Total Joint Recovery Program

At the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, Florida, Henry K. Biggs, DO, has developed a revolutionary, opioid-free post-operative pathway for total hip and knee replacement patients.

Known as the “Secret Sauce,” this program is a comprehensive, education-driven approach. This non-opioid program emphasizes:

• Optimized pain control
• Biologics
• Supplementation
• Advanced edema reduction
• Structured rehabilitation
• Continuous physician communication

It has become a signature component of the JRI brand, representing innovation, compassion, and excellence in orthopedic recovery.

The National Opioid Crisis and the Need for Innovation

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 80,000 Americans died of opioid-related overdoses in 2023—the highest number ever recorded. Orthopedic surgeries, including hip and knee replacements, have historically contributed to initial opioid exposure for thousands of patients each year. Research indicates that up to 6 percent of opioid-naïve patients become long-term users following orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Biggs recognized this problem early and developed the Secret Sauce protocol to eliminate postoperative narcotic use entirely. Today, virtually none of Dr. Biggs’ hip or knee replacement patient requires opioids after surgery, a groundbreaking achievement in orthopedic care. Pain levels rarely exceed 3 out of 10, even in the immediate post-operative window.

Our Non-Opioid Pain Management Strategy

Dr. Biggs’ Secret Sauce protocol uses a multi-layered approach to maintain comfort without narcotics. This includes:

• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Non-opioid analgesics
• Cryotherapy and temperature-based pain modulation
• Neuromuscular stimulation
• Intelligent joint positioning to minimize mechanical pain
• Early motion within safe limits

This physiologic, evidence-based approach ensures that patients remain clear-minded, stable, and mobile from day one.

Biologics & Supplementation

Dr. Biggs integrates biologics and targeted supplements directly into the recovery pathway. These agents help:

• Reduce inflammation
• Stimulate cellular healing
• Support bone and soft-tissue repair
• Optimize nutrient availability
• Strengthen the immune response

Patients receive these curated supplements as part of the Secret Sauce Recovery Kit, ensuring consistency and superior outcomes.

Advanced Edema Control

Effective swelling control is one of the strongest predictors of recovery success. We employ a structured edema control system that includes:

• Advanced icing and compression
• Zero-degree leg positioning
• Venous return optimization
• Lymphatic activation strategies
• Strict elevation guidelines

Controlling swelling early dramatically reduces discomfort, restores motion faster, and reduces complications.

Structured Rehabilitation Program

The Secret Sauce protocol includes a clear, step-by-step activity progression, outlining exactly what patients should do each day.

The rehabilitation plan focuses on:

• Safe early ambulation
• Restoration of muscle activation
• Prevention of stiffness
• Protection of the new joint
• Gradual return of gait mechanics

Patients receive daily checklists, exercise instructions, and timelines, reducing anxiety and promoting confidence.

The Joint Replacement Institute Secret Sauce Recovery Kit

Every patient receives a comprehensive Secret Sauce Recovery Kit, containing:

• Supplements and biologics
• Cryotherapy equipment
• Zero-degree positioning devices
• Wound care materials
• Edema control tools
• A complete recovery guidebook
• Daily rehabilitation instructions
• A medication and supplement schedule
• Monitoring tools for safe healing

This kit empowers patients with everything they need from the moment they leave the operating room.

AI-Enhanced Patient Support

To further enhance safety and communication, we provide patients with access to a custom AI-driven support system.

This digital assistant offers:

• Real-time answers to common questions
• Step-by-step reinforcement of the protocol
• Exercise and mobility guidance
• Symptom troubleshooting
• Medication and supplement reminders
• 24/7 availability

The combination of AI support and direct access to Dr. Biggs ensures that no patient ever feels alone during recovery.

Dr. Henry Biggs: Redefining the Doctor-Patient Relationship

A defining characteristic of the Joint Replacement Institute is the level of access patients have to Dr. Henry K. Biggs.  Patient education, communication, and physician availability are central to our culture.

Dr. Biggs provides:

• Direct communication after surgery for three months
• Ongoing patient education
• Clear expectations
• Reassurance during every phase of recovery

This connection is one of the strongest drivers of the Secret Sauce program’s success.

Frequently Asked Questions