Massage for rehabilitation from injury and surgeries

This month, the blog will focus on the benefits of massage for rehabilitation from injury and surgery.

When medically appropriate, massage therapy can complement recovery from surgeries, joint replacements and sports injuries by addressing issues such as muscular tension, restricted movement and scar tissue.

Postoperative pain and changes in movement can complicate a return to normal activity, which is one reason recovery should be approached gradually and according to the individual procedure.

When appropriate, massage therapy may support recovery in several ways, including:

• Decreasing pain, stress and anxiety

• Supporting healthy scar-tissue mobility and surrounding soft tissue

• Supporting mobility and range of motion during recovery

For some clients, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) may also be appropriate as a gentle approach to managing certain types of swelling during recovery.

I've also explored several common surgical procedures and how massage may fit into recovery when medically appropriate. You can read more about massage following m hip and knee replacement surgery, abdominal surgery, and cardiac surgery.