HOW MASSAGE THERAPY CAN BENEFIT YOUR POST-SURGERY REHABILITATION
Post-surgical patients benefit from massage therapy in multiple ways such as reducing contractures and relaxing muscles which have become tight and guarding due to the trauma of the surgery. Massage helps prevent the laying down of collagen substructures which cause scar tissue to form around the incision and surrounding tissues.
There is no set time for healing from surgery (or any injury for that matter). It all depends on the nature of the surgery and the location , depth and magnitude of the incision. For something major like heart surgery, recovery would entail a minimum of 6 weeks. For minor surgery, with smaller incisions, the therapist should avoid the direct area and massage around the incision at a level comfortable to the client.
Post-Operative Massage Therapy
Orthopedic Massage (including cupping massage, deep tissue, myofascial release, and cross -fiber friction) is a great way to release adhesions. To massage the incision area (medium incisions- 1 inch to 3 inches) it is advisable to wait approximately 6 weeks post-op. If the scar has fully formed, I will apply light pressure around the site. There should be strong communication between client and therapist. I will stop at any discomfort, and slowly increase the depth of pressure.
There is always increased swelling, reduced flexibility and stiffness following surgery. The incision site and the underlying adhesions to muscle tissue and fascia (due to tension, displacement and cutting/suturing ) create scar tissue. It is vital that that incision site and joints be massaged after seven days of healing. Of course, pressure and intensity of massage needs to be light initially and increased over time, helping to reduce swelling, redness, and pain.
It is VERY IMPORTANT for post-surgical patients to seek massage therapy early in order to avoid months or years of suffering due to untreated contractures, muscle adhesions, guarding muscles and scar tissue and the resulting consequences of reduced range of motion. Orthopedic massage has been scientifically proven to assist in resolving these typical post-surgical issues.
So if you know someone who’s getting ready to undergo surgery, consider holding off on the get-well-soon balloons and start looking for a good massage therapist instead.
Essential oils that may be beneficial for scar tissue: Frankincense and Lavender
There is no set time for healing from surgery (or any injury for that matter). It all depends on the nature of the surgery and the location , depth and magnitude of the incision. For something major like heart surgery, recovery would entail a minimum of 6 weeks. For minor surgery, with smaller incisions, the therapist should avoid the direct area and massage around the incision at a level comfortable to the client.