Heal Faster After Surgery With Massage

If you've ever had surgery, it's likely you already know how debilitating post-operative pain can be. Proper treatment of the pain, depression and other complications associated with surgery, is key to reducing to patient recovery time. Generally, post-surgical pain is managed via the use of various non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents or narcotics. While these medicines are highly effective, non-pharmalogical treatments, like massage therapy have also been shown to have a positive effect. A 2007 study, published in the JAMA’s Archives of Surgery found that Swedish Massage – which releases the body's endorphins or natural painkillers – in conjunction with regular pain medication, significantly improved patient pain and anxiety after major surgery. This finding is noteworthy, as post-operative pain and other related symptoms are often under treated.

Further Benefits of Swedish Massage Post-Surgery
 
In addition assisting in the relief of post-surgical pain, Swedish Massage also promotes:

• Improved circulation: Receiving massage increases blood flow to the major muscle groups, which boosts metabolism and the production of healthier cells.
• Improved skin tone: Increased circulation augments the rate of healing of the body's cells and skin. This can be especially helpful after procedures that require large incisions.
• Deeper sleep: A good night’s sleep helps to restore the body, which is particularly important after surgery. Massage therapy promotes deeper, better quality sleep, and promotes faster post-operative recovery.
• Better mood: The endorphin boost from massage elevates mood, making it easier to deal with the stress and anxiety often felt after surgery.

 
 
Benefits of Manual Lymph Drainage Post Surgery
 
Although, Swedish Massage has been shown to reduce pain and improve the mood of post-operative patients, it is not an effective treatment modality for the edema (swelling) they often experience. Most surgical procedures damage or disrupt the proper functioning of vascular structures, including those of the Lymphatic System. The incisions made during surgery cut through lymphatic vessels that are crucial for carrying away excess fluid and cellular debris. As a direct result, fluid tends to accumulate in the affected tissues post surgery. Though these vessels eventually regenerate, it takes weeks for your system to return to normal. As a result, receiving Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) treatments, which increase lymphatic flow, is the best option for minimizing post-surgical edema, bruising, scar tissue and risk of infection as you heal. 
 
 
Choosing the Right Therapist for your Post Surgical Massage
 
Swedish Massage and Manual Lymph Drainage are both highly effective non-pharmalogical treatment modalities to decrease pain, anxiety, swelling, bruising, scar tissue and infection risk in post-surgical patients. That’s why making the choice to work with an RMT, who is also certified in Combined Decongestive Therapy, is your best bet for relief of post-operative discomfort and other associated symptoms. RMT, CDTs are trained to treat the issues that may arise following surgery: specifically, the retention of fluids (swelling) and ‘thickening’ of the tissue surrounding the surgical site. They are also aware of the conditions that signal underlying problems that are contraindications for MLD treatment post surgery: in which case the practitioner would refer to an appropriate health care provider.
 
 
 
To ensure a smooth and speedy recovery from surgery, make sure you have your ducks in a row regarding your after care. Incorporating Swedish Massage and Manual Lymph Drainage into your post-operative treatment regimen will go a long way to reducing any pain, anxiety and swelling you may experience. To learn more benefits of Swedish or Manual Lymph Drainage massage after surgery, please feel free to contact me via email or call 647.352.0863.