Surgeries Encountered in Massage Practice: Hip and Knee

Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

Occurs when a worn out  hip is replaced with with an artificial joint because of fracture or arthritis. 

Some complaints and complication after surgery include: 

• Scarring or adhesions that affect range of motion

• Misalignment in muscles and joints that can produce chronic pain

  
  

Massage therapy has been known to contribute to lesser occurrences of embolism after hip replacement. It also helps patients with limiting scar tissue. Oftentimes, the muscles affected by the surgery, such as hamstrings, quads and larger glutes can tense up and continually fire and stay contracted. Massage of those muscles provides comfort and reduces the risk of chronic pain occurring.

Massage following joint-replacement surgery should be coordinated with the client's medical team. Timing and techniques depend on the procedure, healing progress and individual risk factors. When medically appropriate, gentle techniques such as manual lymphatic drainage may sometimes be incorporated during postoperative recovery under the guidance of the client's healthcare team.

I've worked with many clients during their recovery from hip replacement, using massage as one part of their broader rehabilitation and recovery plan.

Hip and knee replacement are just two examples of procedures where massage may complement a broader recovery plan.

Learn more about massage therapy for rehabilitation after injury and surgery